Africa-Press – Sierra-Leone. On Thursday, July 24, 2025, the President of the Sierra Leone Basketball Federation (SLBF), Ali Hijazi, has confirmed that the national Under 16 basketball team will represent the country at the upcoming FIBA U16 Afro Basket Championship in Rwanda, scheduled for September 2025.
The announcement follows the team’s recent victory at the U16 Africa Championship held in Conakry, Guinea. Eight nations participated in the tournament, where Sierra Leone emerged as champions, securing qualification for the continental competition.
A formal presentation of the championship trophy took place at the National Sports Authority (NSA), where Hijazi acknowledged the challenges, the team faced on their journey. These included medical testing requirements, financial constraints, and logistical issues. While the NSA did not provide direct financial assistance, Hijazi credited the agency for their ongoing support in other areas and extended appreciation to Africell, whose contributions played a key role in the team’s success.
He Stated, “This is not my first visit to NSA, but today I am proud to present this trophy on behalf of the team. While we did not receive direct financial support from the NSA, Director General Abdulai and his team have always supported us in various ways. I must also express our heartfelt gratitude to Africell for their unwavering support throughout our Campaign.”
NSA Director General, Dr. Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai, praised the team’s achievement and described it as a pivotal moment for basketball in Sierra Leone. He highlighted the win as a step forward in advocating for the construction of a national indoor multi-sport complex at Aberdeen, which is currently pending land documentation.
“If I had my way, no sporting association would ever struggle for funding,” Dr. Abdulai stated. He also continues “Given the government’s current priorities, we must continue to work within our means.”
Dr. Abdulai acknowledged the broader funding challenges facing sports associations due to national budget priorities but reaffirmed the NSA’s commitment to supporting basketball development. He also called on more corporate sponsors to support national sports initiatives.
The U16 team’s success in Guinea is seen as a reflection of the growing potential within Sierra Leone’s youth sports scene. As preparations begin for the Afro Basket tournament in Rwanda, the team carries with them a message of perseverance, skill, and national unity.
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