Minister of Sports Graces 3rd Annual Sports Festival of Chinese Compatriots in SL

The Minister of Sports, Madam Augusta James-Teima, attended the 3rd Annual Sports Festival organized by Chinese compatriots residing in Sierra Leone, held at the National Stadium Practice Field. The festival brought together members of the Chinese community, government officials, and sports enthusiasts for a day of competition, camaraderie, and cultural celebration.

Madam James-Teima was present as Guest of Honour, representing His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio. The occasion was also graced by the newly appointed Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Zhao Yong, alongside other distinguished guests.

In her address, the Minister expressed her appreciation for the invitation, describing the festival as meaningful and worthwhile. Speaking on behalf of the Government of Sierra Leone, she said she was honoured to witness the third edition of the sports festival and to celebrate alongside the Chinese community.

Highlighting the unifying power of sports, Madam James-Teima noted that sports transcend race, tribe, and colour, bringing people together as one. She emphasized the role of sports in physical development, emotional well-being, social cohesion, and economic growth, underlining the broader benefits of sporting activities for society.

The Minister also extended heartfelt gratitude to the Government and people of the People’s Republic of China for their continued support to Sierra Leone, particularly in the construction of the National Stadium, provision of sporting facilities, and ongoing rehabilitation projects. She assured that Sierra Leoneans remain appreciative and look forward to fully benefiting from these facilities.

Encouraging participants to uphold the spirit of sportsmanship, Madam James-Teima stressed the importance of accepting both victory and defeat with grace and celebrating together with winners, noting that these values make sporting festivals truly meaningful.

Concluding her remarks, the Minister wished the organizers and participants a successful and memorable celebration and reaffirmed her commitment to supporting initiatives that promote sports, unity, and youth development in Sierra Leone.

The event further strengthened the cordial relationship between Sierra Leone and China, using sports as a bridge for friendship, cooperation, and cultural exchange between the two nations.