{"id":250,"date":"2025-05-09T18:44:41","date_gmt":"2025-05-09T18:44:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sportswriterssl.com\/?p=250"},"modified":"2025-05-09T19:38:07","modified_gmt":"2025-05-09T19:38:07","slug":"elementor-250","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sportswriterssl.com\/?p=250","title":{"rendered":"Street Child 2025 SLM ignites Global Spirit, Tourism and Inclusion"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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By Bashiru Barrie<\/p>\n

The 2025 Street Child Marathon wasn\u2019t just a race; it was a celebration of resilience, connection, and cultural pride. With runners from across the globe descending on Sierra Leone\u2019s northern city, the event did more than raise funds; it elevated the nation\u2019s profile, boosted tourism, and sparked global connections rooted in a shared mission: giving every child a chance.<\/p>\n

One of the most talked about moments came through a powerful partnership between Street Child and Marampa Mines, who not only delivered the biggest sponsorship in the event\u2019s 13 year history, but also collaborated with world-renowned fashion designer Foday Dumbuya, (LABRUM) London based Sierra Leone descendant, designer of the 2024\/2025 Arsenal away jersey.<\/p>\n

Dumbuya, a proud Sierra Leonean, created 1,000 custom T-shirts for the marathon, bold, cultural pieces that became the face of the race.<\/p>\n

Meeting Foday Dumbuya in person was an inspiring moment. As a journalist, connecting with someone whose designs are making waves on global stages like the English Premier League reminded me that Sierra Leonean talent is world class. His presence, and his work, symbolized what the marathon was truly about local pride with global reach.<\/p>\n

The marathon drew participants from countries across Africa, Europe, and beyond, transforming Makeni into a hub of cultural exchange. It became a unique space where people of different languages, backgrounds, and experiences connected over a common goal: to support vulnerable children and advocate for inclusive education.<\/p>\n

Beyond charity, the marathon provided a major boost to tourism in Sierra Leone\u2019s northern region. Hotels were fully booked, local markets thrived, and many international visitors explored nearby attractions turning what began as a sporting event into an economic and cultural opportunity. From first time tourists to returnees eager to rediscover their roots, the event sparked new interest in the region\u2019s potential.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis marathon is putting Makeni on the map,\u201d a local vendor proudly said. \u201cWe had people from the UK, Germany, and America, buying from us. We want this every year!\u201d<\/p>\n

Race Day Highlights and Results:<\/p>\n

With four race categories: 42km full marathon, 21km half marathon, 10km, and 5km the event had something for everyone. Runners of all ages and abilities participated, including those with physical disabilities who defied odds and inspired thousands.<\/p>\n

Full Marathon (42km):<\/strong><\/p>\n

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  • Men\u2019s Winner: Amadu Sajor Samura (2hr 51min)<\/li>\n
  • Women\u2019s Winner: Adama S. Kamara (4hr 26min) She happens to be the only contender for this particular race.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

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    Half Marathon (21km):<\/strong><\/p>\n

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    • Men: Ishmeal Bangura (1st), Samuel S. Mansaray (2nd), Issa Kamara (3rd)<\/li>\n
    • Women: Musanatu S. Kanu (1st), Zainab Kamara (2nd), Mariatu Fullah (3rd)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

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      10km Race:<\/strong><\/p>\n

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      • Men: Alusine Conteh (1st), Edward Sesay (2nd), Saidu Gballoy (3rd)<\/li>\n
      • Women: Nancy Isatu Kanu (1st), Mariama Kalokoh (2nd), Nenneh Isatu Shaw (3rd)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

        5km Race:<\/strong><\/p>\n

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        • Men: John Lassie (1st), Abdul Kamara (2nd), Ibrahim Sesay (3rd)<\/li>\n
        • Women: Hannah Kamara (1st), Victoria D. Turay (2nd), Fatu S. Conteh (3rd)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

          The race was especially moving thanks to athletes like Fatmata Dumbuya, who completed the 5km in a wheelchair, and Alhaji Kamara, who used crutches to finish. Their participation sent a loud and clear message: inclusion is not optional, it’s essential.<\/p>\n

          Major sponsors such as Elephant Bet, Africell Mobile Company, and headline sponsor Marampa Mines came together to provide prizes and financial backing, while also reinforcing their commitment to social good.\u00a0\u201cSupporting Street Child is part of our corporate social responsibility. Their work touches lives across the country. We are proud to be part of something that takes children off the streets and gives them hope.\u201d\u00a0 Aminata Kamara vice president, corporate affairs Marampa Mines said.<\/p>\n

          Funds from the marathon go directly to Street Child education initiatives building schools, training teachers, reintegrating children from the streets into classrooms, and providing educational materials to remote communities.<\/p>\n

          What began as a community event has evolved into a global movement rooted in Sierra Leonean soil. With each edition, the Street Child Marathon deepens its purpose: uniting nations through sport, uplifting vulnerable children, and showcasing the strength, talent, and culture of Sierra Leone.<\/p>\n

          From shaking hands with Foday Dumbuya (LABRUM) an Arsenal kit designer to running alongside visitors from different continents, this experience was more than a story to tell, it was a story to live. And in that story, Sierra Leone stands tall.<\/p>\n

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