Africa-Press – Sierra-Leone. The Minister of Sports, Madam Augusta James-Teima, has congratulated Sierra Leone’s U-20 national team as they prepare to take part in the CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) for the first time.
The tournament will take place in Egypt.
Speaking at a press conference at the SLFA Academy, the Minister said the team’s qualification is a proud moment for the country and shows that football is moving forward.
“The Government of President Bio is pleased to see our youngsters represent the green, white, and blue internationally and it is for the first time. It shows football is taking us to another level in this country,” she said.
She spoke about the need to build a proper youth football system so that the country can continue to have strong teams in the future. “That is why it is important to work on a proper youth system in order to get good teams at all levels,” she added.
The Minister also said the team has a good chance of doing well in the tournament. Their first match will be played on April 27, which is also Sierra Leone’s Independence Day. She said this makes the match even more special. “We will celebrate in a different way because we will win the game on that day,” she said.
Although the tournament was not included in the government’s budget at first, Madam James-Teima said they made sure funds were made available. “We fought very hard to make sure that the Ministry of Finance and government approve the budget to pay allowances and tickets. I am happy that the players received support from the Bio administration because they worked very hard to qualify.”
She also called for peace and unity among those involved in football. She said it is only when people work together that the sport can grow. “With unity there is development. Peace will help us hold successful SLFA Congresses, and only when you are together will government continue to support the SLFA wholeheartedly,” she said.
The Minister ended her statement by encouraging the young players and sending them her best wishes. “We wish them all the best. We pray for them to remain focused, as success awaits them.”
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