By Hassan Osman Kargbo
Frustration is mounting among residents of Magburaka Town in Tonkolili District following the unfulfilled promise by the President of the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) to construct an artificial turf at the Magburaka Mini Stadium.
On November 1, 2024, the SLFA President made a public pledge that the long-awaited turf project would begin in February 2025. Now, four months into the year, residents say no visible progress has been made, sparking disappointment and a growing sense of abandonment.
Community members describe the situation as deeply disheartening, especially in light of similar projects successfully completed in other districts under FIFA funding. According to locals, while other areas are enjoying modern artificial playing surfaces, Tonkolili remains on the sidelines.
“This feels like an elephant promise,” said Ibrahim Kallon, a youth leader in Magburaka. “It sounded great when announced, but we have seen no action. Other districts are moving forward with sports development, while we continue to be left behind.”
The artificial turf project was expected to boost local football and provide much-needed infrastructure to support youth development through sports. Many in the town had welcomed the initial announcement with optimism, seeing it as a sign that Magburaka would finally receive equal attention in national sports initiatives.
“We appreciate the SLFA President’s efforts in improving football across Sierra Leone,” Kallon added. “But promises must be honored. This isn’t just about football — it’s about opportunities for our young people and respect for our community.”
The residents’ frustration is compounded by what they perceive as a lack of communication and transparency from the SLFA. Community members say they have received no updates or explanations about the delay, fueling speculation that the project has been quietly shelved.
“It’s painful to watch others play on new pitches while we continue to train on poor, dusty grounds,” said Sulaiman Kamara, a local football enthusiast. “We believed in the vision, but now we feel neglected.”
Residents are now calling on the SLFA and its leadership to urgently revisit the commitment made to Tonkolili District. They argue that fulfilling the promise would not only deliver tangible sporting benefits but also restore public trust in the football authority.
“We are not asking for special treatment. We are only asking for what was promised,” said Mariatu Conteh, a schoolteacher who also volunteers in youth football programs. “The future of our young athletes depends on facilities like this.”
The artificial turf project was supposed to be part of SLFA’s broader plan to enhance football infrastructure nationwide, supported by funding from international bodies including FIFA. Yet, the exclusion of Magburaka — a town with a strong football history — has left many questioning the criteria behind project selections.
As the football season progresses and attention turns once more to local leagues and youth development, the people of Magburaka are renewing their call for accountability.
“The eyes of Magburaka are watching,” said Kamara. “It’s time to turn promises into action. The SLFA must live up to its word.”
As of this report, there has been no official response from the SLFA regarding the status of the Magburaka turf project.
