By Hassan Osman Kargbo
The people of Bo city came alive on Saturday, August 9, as thousands of jubilant residents and football lovers from across the Southern Region gathered to welcome home the newly elected president of the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA), Babadi Kamara. The celebration marked a significant moment not only for Kamara himself but also for the entire city and region, proud to see one of their own rises to the helm of football administration in Sierra Leone.
The day began with a colourful street parade through the heart of Bo, where supporters, community leaders, and cultural performers turned out in droves. Music, drumming, traditional dancing, and chants echoed across the city as the people celebrated a son of the soil whose leadership has been a long time coming.
President Kamara arrived in the city flanked by a high-powered delegation from the SLFA. His entourage included SLFA vice president I, Alie Badara Tarawalie; Western Area Regional Chairman, Pastor Philip Buck; Executive Official, Mohamed Sorie Jalloh; Northeast Regional Chairman, Brima Jalloh; Northwest Regional Chairman, Abdulai Osman Turay; and host Southern Region Chairman, Joseph Benedict Mogba. 
These individuals have been among Kamara’s most trusted allies throughout his campaign and post-election journey. Also present was the Acting General Secretary of the SLFA, Mohamed Benson Bawoh.
The grand rally made its way to the Bo Coronation Field, where the official welcome ceremony was held. The event attracted major local dignitaries, including the Mayor of Bo City, His Worship Kobba Musa, and the Chairman of the Bo District Council, Korseh Hindowa, both of whom lauded Kamara for his leadership and commitment to football development.
Addressing the crowd, president Kamara expressed deep appreciation for the warm reception and the unwavering support shown to him by the people of Bo.
“I feel elated and deeply honoured to see my people come out in their numbers to celebrate this achievement,” he said. “I remain committed to ensuring that football continues to grow to its fullest potential in Sierra Leone.”
Kamara, known for his grassroots engagement and strategic leadership, is widely credited with transforming Bo Rangers Football Club during his tenure as Executive Chairman. His election to the SLFA presidency is seen as a reward for years of service, dedication, and impact in local and national football circles.
The celebrations culminated at the iconic Southern Arena with a Sierra Leone Premier League match between Bo Rangers and Diamond Stars. 
The home team delivered an emphatic 3-0 win, a fitting tribute to their former leader. The victory was met with roaring cheers from the packed stadium, as many considered it a symbolic gift to President Kamara on his big day.
For many in Bo, Kamara’s ascension represents more than just a personal milestone. It signifies the growing influence of the Southern Region in national football matters and a renewed hope for inclusive development under his leadership.
“This is not just a win for Babadi Kamara. It is a win for Bo, for the South, and for every young footballer dreaming of a better future,” said one local supporter during the rally.
The day’s events also highlighted the unity and coordination within the SLFA leadership. The visible presence of regional chairmen from across the country sent a message of solidarity and a shared vision for the advancement of football in Sierra Leone.
As the sun set on a memorable day in Bo City, the message was clear—football in Sierra Leone is entering a new era, and at the centre of it stands Babadi Kamara, a man whose leadership has already begun to inspire a new wave of optimism across the nation.
