By Alhaji Dauda Galaxy
The Vice President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, has commended Craig Dean, Chairman of Marampa Mines Limited (MML), for his company’s outstanding contribution to the growth of women’s football in the country.
In a statement issued following the unveiling of a $150,000 sponsorship deal between Marampa Mines Limited and the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA), Vice President Jalloh lauded the leadership of SLFA President Babadi Kamara and the collaborative efforts of stakeholders driving football development.
“I salute SLFA Chairman Babadi Kamara’s efforts to promote football in Salone, which has been boosted by MML’s support of $150,000 to the Women’s Premier League,” the Vice President stated. “Kudos to Craig Dean, the MML team, SLFA, and Women’s Premier League Chair Hon. Mariatu for advancing Salone football.”
The Vice President described the partnership as a milestone that not only strengthens the women’s game but also advances national unity, youth empowerment, and gender inclusion through sports.
The $150,000 sponsorship, which represents the biggest corporate support ever directed toward women’s football in Sierra Leone, was officially announced at the SLFA Secretariat in Freetown.
The agreement, secured under the leadership of SLFA President Babadi Kamara, covers the 2025/26 Sierra Leone Women’s Premier League season and marks a new chapter in corporate investment in sports.
Speaking at the ceremony, Marampa Mines Limited Chairman Craig Dean expressed pride in partnering with the SLFA, noting that the company’s commitment extends beyond financial support. “This is a long-term partnership that aligns with our vision to empower women and support communities through football,” Dean said.
SLFA President Babadi Kamara thanked MML for their confidence and generosity, assuring that the funds will be used transparently for the league’s development. He emphasized that the partnership symbolizes women’s empowerment and national cohesion, noting recent triumphs by the Sierra Leone U17 and Senior Women’s National Teams—both winners of the 2025 WAFU Women’s Championship—as proof of the game’s growing potential.
The signing ceremony, which featured the presentation of a $150,000 mock cheque, was attended by SLFA Vice President II Prince Saquee, NSA Deputy Executive Director Dr. Abdulrahman Swarray, Women’s League Chairperson Madam Rachael Pessima, and players of the Sierra Queens.
In appreciation, SLFA President Kamara presented Craig Dean with a national team jersey, officially naming him an Ambassador for the Sierra Leone Football Association.
The event concluded with heartfelt remarks from Sierra Queens and FC Kallon captain Sarah Bangura, who thanked Marampa Mines Limited and the SLFA leadership for their continued commitment to women’s football development in Sierra Leone.
