Local Organizing Committee (LOC) finalise the hosting rights for the Africa Youth Cup Tournament

The dream of hosting a continental football spectacle is now a reality for Sierra Leone! The Local Organizing Committee (LOC) officially sealed the deal today, confirming the nation as the proud host of the prestigious Africa Youth Cup Tournament.

This highly anticipated event, set to electrify football fans from April 24th to May 4th, 2026, will showcase the brightest young talents from across Africa in both U-17 girls' and U-18 boys' categories.

The momentous decision was rubber-stamped at the LOC's second crucial meeting, held on August 22nd, 2025, at the historic Bishop House in Freetown. The session, expertly chaired by the indefatigable Director of Sports, Haroun Mustapha Korgi, brought together a formidable line-up of senior officials. 

Representatives from the Ministries of Sports, Youth, Tourism, Education, and the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) were all present, underscoring the collective commitment to making this tournament an resounding success.

With the iconic National Stadium currently undergoing vital renovations, the vibrant city of Bo has emerged as the proposed primary battleground for the tournament. Football action is expected to be spread across the state-of-the-art Southern Arena and the Bo Mini Stadium, promising an unforgettable experience for players and spectators alike.

This tournament isn't just about football; it's a strategic alignment with the government's visionary "Big Five Game Changers" agenda. It's a powerful statement in promoting youth empowerment and igniting job creation across the nation, utilizing the beautiful game as a catalyst for socio-economic development.

To ensure seamless execution, a dedicated task force, comprising representatives from various ministries, will meticulously oversee all preparations. This collaborative effort will be further bolstered by a dynamic WhatsApp coordination group, ensuring swift and efficient communication among all stakeholders. The next LOC meeting promises to be another pivotal moment, with key roles to be finalized, regulations ironed out, and operational plans meticulously mapped.

Minister of Sports, Augusta James-Teima, a driving force behind this ambitious undertaking, passionately urged continued collaboration, emphasizing the profound significance of football in Sierra Leone. 

"Football is loved by our President, H.E. Julius Maada Bio, and by the youth of Sierra Leone," she declared. "Let us all give our best to make this tournament a success."

The countdown has officially begun! Sierra Leone is ready to welcome Africa's brightest young footballing stars and deliver a tournament that will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on the continent's sporting landscape.