The Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) has received a major boost after FIFA lifted all financial restrictions on the Association effective 19th January 2026, just five months after the new executive committee, led by President Babadi Kamara, took office.
The announcement was made on Thursday, 22nd January 2026, during a press conference held at the SLFA Secretariat in Kingtom, which brought together media representatives, partners, and football stakeholders.
In his remarks, SLFA President Babadi Kamara described the lifting of the restrictions as a milestone in Sierra Leonean football. He said it reflects the Association’s commitment to good governance, transparency, and accountability, and positions the SLFA to achieve sustainable growth at all levels of the game.
Acting General Secretary Mohamed Benson Bawoh explained that the decision from FIFA allows the SLFA to increase funding for grassroots and regional football, with the annual budget for Regional Football Associations raised from USD 15,000 to USD 50,000. “This is part of our strategy to strengthen football development across the country,” he said.
Bawoh also highlighted that the Women’s Premier League is currently sponsored by Marampa Mines Limited, and the SLFA is in talks with major stakeholders including NACTA, Orange, and Africell to secure additional financial support. “FIFA and CAF funds alone are not sufficient to fully realize our ambitions,” he added.
On safeguarding and administration, Bawoh said about 80 percent of SLFA staff are now certified safeguarding officers, demonstrating the Association’s compliance with FIFA and CAF standards. Infrastructure development is also ongoing, with renovations at the SLFA Secretariat in Kingtom and a USD 95,000 contribution by President Kamara to Wusum for a perimeter fence around their football pitch.
Addressing player welfare, Bawoh revealed a new comprehensive strategy designed to support players following the recent death of a Mighty Blackpool player. A nationwide player data collection exercise is also underway to ensure accurate records across all leagues.
The press conference concluded with the announcement that Sierra Leone will face St. Lucia in the FIFA Series 2026 in Azerbaijan, with the winner advancing to play either Oman or Azerbaijan in a subsequent international friendly.
