Ministry of Youth Affairs Signs MoU with Special Olympics Sierra Leone to Champion Inclusion.

An agreement that promises to reshape the landscape of opportunity for Sierra Leone's youth, the Ministry of Youth Affairs (MOYA) and Special Olympics Sierra Leone (SOSL) on January 9th, 2026 signed a powerful Memorandum of Understanding, forging a united front to empower young people with intellectual disabilities through the transformative power of sport and community.

This partnership is a bold statement of intent. It moves beyond theory, establishing a concrete framework to roll out inclusive sports programs nationwide. The shared mission is clear: to foster acceptance, build vital skills, and create spaces where every young person can thrive and contribute their unique talents to society.

Under this new alliance, MOYA will leverage its policy-making and advocacy platforms to champion inclusion at the highest levels. Special Olympics Sierra Leone will bring its world-class expertise, leading the hands-on implementation of sports training, competitions, and development programs designed to unlock potential.

“This is far more than a document; it is a promise,” stated Minister of Youth Affairs, Ibrahim Sannoh. “We are building a Sierra Leone where no young person is left on the sidelines. Inclusion is not an act of charity it is an act of justice. Together with Special Olympics, we are committing to celebrate ability, ensure equal access, and empower our youth to reach their fullest potential.”

The Minister highlighted sport as a proven catalyst for confidence, social cohesion, and national unity, affirming the ministry’s dedication to placing all youth at the heart of the nation’s development agenda.

A key pillar of the collaboration is sustainability. The plan includes comprehensive training for coaches and volunteers, alongside robust monitoring to ensure the initiatives deliver lasting, measurable change in the lives of participants and their communities.

This MoU marks a significant milestone in Sierra Leone's journey toward a truly inclusive future. As this partnership springs into action, it carries the power to transform perceptions, inspire communities, and open new pathways for countless young people to shine, compete, and find their rightful place of belonging.

Correspondent-Mabinty Koroma

Email: koromamabinty962@gmail.com

Tel: +232 78078417