By Hassan Osman Kargbo
The President of the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA), Babadi Kamara, on Saturday 25th October 2025 graced the inaugural Bo Maiden Street Child Marathon as Guest of Honour, describing the event as a powerful platform to inspire young people and promote unity through sports.
Held in the heart of Bo City, the marathon brought together hundreds of children, parents, community members, and dignitaries, including Bo City Mayor Kobba Musa and Resident Minister South. The 5-kilometre race saw enthusiastic participation from children across various communities, with cheering crowds lining the streets to support the young runners.
In his keynote remarks, SLFA President Kamara commended the organisers for creating an initiative that not only encourages physical fitness but also fosters discipline, teamwork, and confidence among children.
“This marathon is a symbol of hope, inspiration, and community spirit,” Kamara said. “Sports have always been a powerful tool for transformation, and events like this remind us that the next generation can be guided towards positive growth and healthy living through consistent engagement.”
Kamara, who joined the run alongside the children, noted that the SLFA remains committed to supporting grassroots sporting initiatives across the country. He added that such activities are crucial for nurturing young talents who could one day represent Sierra Leone at international levels.
Bo City Mayor Kobba Musa also lauded the organisers, describing the event as a reflection of Bo’s growing passion for youth empowerment and community cohesion. “What we witnessed today is truly remarkable. It shows that Bo is not only a city of football lovers but also a community that values health, youth development, and inclusion,” he said.
Resident Minister South, Chief John Abu, praised the collaboration among community stakeholders and the SLFA, emphasizing that the marathon demonstrated how sports can unite people regardless of background. “When children run together, they learn the importance of equality, perseverance, and friendship. That’s the kind of values we want to see shaping our nation’s future,” he stated.
Parents and spectators also expressed joy and pride in seeing their children participate. One parent, Mariama Kallon, said, “This is the first time we’re seeing something like this in Bo, and it’s giving our children confidence. They’re learning that they can achieve great things with effort and focus.”
Organisers of the Bo Maiden Street Child Marathon announced plans to make the event an annual fixture, promising that future editions will be even bigger, with more schools and communities taking part.
