Sports Minister Inspects Stadiums and Hotels Ahead of 2026 U-15 Academy Tournament

As part of preparations for Sierra Leone’s first-ever International 16-Nation U-15 Academy Tournament scheduled for April 2026, Minister of Sports Madam Augusta James-Teima led a high-level delegation on Monday to the southern and eastern regions to inspect stadiums and hotel facilities.

The tour covered key sporting and hospitality venues in Kenema and Bo, ensuring they meet international standards ahead of the tournament.

At Kenema Town Field Stadium, the Minister and her team were received by the Secretary General of the Kenema District Football Association, Umaru Sallu Sawaneh. Director of Sports Haroun Mustapha Korgi briefed local officials on the purpose of the visit, followed by updates from Mr. Sawaneh on ongoing stadium improvements.

The inspection included dressing rooms, conference halls, toilets, the pitch, and lighting and water systems. The team also visited Albertson Hotel, Paloma Hotel, and Dorwail Hotel to assess facilities and accommodation rates for participating teams and officials.

The delegation later proceeded to the Bo Mini Stadium, where Stadium Manager Mohamed Vangahun and his technical staff welcomed them. Similar inspections were carried out on the stadium’s infrastructure and utilities. The team also checked the Galliness Paradise Hotel, while the Southern Arena Stadium, already certified to international standards, was acknowledged as fully compliant.

By the end of the tour, the inspection team tentatively agreed on Bo Mini Stadium, Southern Arena, and Galliness Paradise Hotel as key venues for the tournament. Findings will be presented at the next meeting of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) for final approval.

The delegation included Permanent Secretary Mr. Jusu, Deputy Secretary Madam Naba Osaio Khanu, Senior Development Officer Mr. Momodu Alpha, District Sports Officer (NSA) Madam Isatu Sheriff, and members of the Ministry of Sports Media Team.