By Sulaiman Jalloh
The Ministry of Sports has submitted a budget ceiling request of NLe 3.99 million for Fiscal Year 2026 during bilateral budget discussions with the Ministry of Finance on Saturday, held in partnership with the office of Planning and Economic Development and other stakeholders, providing a platform for ministries, departments, and agencies to justify their financial proposals and outline key deliverables.
Director of Sports, Haroun Mustapha Kojie, presented the ministry’s case, emphasizing that this funding is essential to enhance Sierra Leoneans’ quality of life through sports development and capacity building. Despite notable successes, including medal wins across various disciplines, Kojie highlighted persistent budget constraints. He noted that
of the NLe 10.20 million proposed for 2024, only NLe 6.08 million was disbursed, and for 2025, just NLe 1.89 million of the NLe 9.76 million budgeted was released, he urged timely and increased funding in 2026 to execute planned activities effectively.
Among the ministry’s achievements, improved access to funding enabled more sports associations to compete nationally and internationally, boosting Sierra Leone’s medal tally. However, challenges persist, including a shortage of technical staff, inadequate budgetary support, and the absence of official vehicles for senior management, including the Permanent Secretary.
For FY2026, the ministry plans to review and develop five sports policies and regulations, amend the National Sports Authority Act of 2017, strengthen institutional capacity, and enhance supervision and monitoring of sporting activities nationwide. In response to facilitators’ queries, Kojie assured commitment to addressing concerns, particularly regarding athletes’ compensation and allowances.
This budget request signals a determined effort to elevate Sierra Leone’s sports sector, and I look forward to its potential impact on our athletes and communities.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Wednesday, 1st October 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
