The National Sports Authority (NSA) and the National Commission for Children (NCC) are working towards strengthening child safety and protection measures in sports through a proposed national safeguarding strategy for young athletes across Sierra Leone.

The collaboration is expected to establish stronger child protection measures and ensure that children participating in sporting activities enjoy a safe environment where their rights and welfare are protected.

The Deputy Commissioner of the NCC, Henry Mustapha Sheku, disclosed the Commission’s plans during a meeting with NSA officials at the Authority’s Conference Hall at the Swimming Pool Complex, National Stadium.

Sheku explained that the NSA was identified as a key partner because of its role in promoting and overseeing sporting activities involving children across different age groups. He emphasised that while children have the right to participate in sports, their safety and protection must remain a priority.

Welcoming the proposed partnership, NSA Executive Director Mohamed Alphaka Conteh, Esq., said the Authority had already developed policies aimed at safeguarding children involved in sporting activities.

He reaffirmed the NSA’s readiness to work with the Commission towards developing a national safeguarding policy that will strengthen protections for children participating in sports throughout the country.

Both institutions are expected to combine their efforts to improve existing child protection frameworks and promote a safer and more inclusive sporting environment for young athletes in Sierra Leone.