The Commonwealth Games Association of Sierra Leone (CGA-SLE) today welcomed Her Excellency Josephine Gauld, British High Commissioner to Sierra Leone, at its headquarters on Walpole Street, Freetown.
Her Excellency Gauld, whose personal sporting interest is Polo and who has a strong background in Rowing having been born and bred on the River Thames, engaged in discussions with the leadership of the Association and met with the Presidents of the national federations of Rowing and Fencing, as well as the Chef de Mission for Team Sierra Leone to the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
High Commissioner’s Reflections
High Commissioner Gauld expressed her satisfaction with Sierra Leone’s preparations for Glasgow 2026, noting that the arrangements and pathways to medals are now more structured and promising. She pledged to initiate discussions with the Foreign Ministry regarding travel facilitation for Team Sierra Leone’s participation at Glasgow 2026, underlining the UK’s support for ensuring smooth access and representation.
She further commended the CGA-SLE for its commitment to athlete development, inclusion, and international representation, reaffirming the United Kingdom’s support for the Commonwealth sporting movement as a platform for youth empowerment and cultural exchange.
CGA President’s Remarks
Mr. Prince Vandy Sualley, President of the Commonwealth Games Association of Sierra Leone, provided Her Excellency with a synopsis of preparations for Glasgow 2026. He explained that the Association is working to present a formidable national team composed of both diaspora athletes and home-grown talents merged into one unified delegation:
“Our vision is to build a balanced and competitive Team Sierra Leone by combining the strength of our diaspora athletes with the determination and skill of our local athletes. Glasgow 2026 will be a moment for Sierra Leone to showcase its best — united as one team and one nation.”
Federation Presidents’ Statements
Mr. Mohamed Serry, President of the Sierra Leone Fencing Association, emphasised the importance of the High Commissioner’s visit:
“Fencing is still growing in Sierra Leone, but the interest from young people is very promising. We are working hard to establish pathways that can take athletes from community clubs to the international stage, and this engagement with Her Excellency reaffirms that we are on the right track.”
Mr. Issa Mansaray, President of the Sierra Leone Rowing Federation, highlighted the opportunities for rowing:
“Rowing offers Sierra Leone a unique opportunity to harness our waterways for sport and development. With the right support, we can produce athletes who will proudly represent the country while also creating a culture of fitness, resilience, and teamwork.”
Chef de Mission’s Briefing
Mr. Yayah Koroma, Chef de Mission for Glasgow 2026, outlined the efforts underway to prepare Team Sierra Leone:
“The CGA is working tirelessly to ensure Team Sierra Leone is ready for Glasgow 2026. From athlete qualification to logistical planning, every effort is being made to guarantee smooth participation. We are not only preparing to compete but to compete with pride and purpose, showcasing the talent and resilience of our athletes.”
CGA-SLE’s Commitment
The leadership of the CGA-SLE reiterated that preparations for Glasgow 2026 are central to the Association’s broader strategy to strengthen Sierra Leone’s place in the Commonwealth and Olympic Movement. The visit concluded with a shared commitment to deepen collaboration and open pathways for technical support, athlete exchange, and capacity building.