Africell Sierra Leone, in partnership with NBA Africa, has hosted a two-day junior basketball clinic for more than 350 pupils from primary and junior secondary schools in Freetown, in a major push to develop grassroots sports talent in the country.
The training, held from 16–17 April 2026 at the National Stadium Basketball Court in Brookfields- Freetown- introduced young participants to core basketball fundamentals including dribbling, passing, shooting, and teamwork. The sessions were led by experienced coaches and designed to create an engaging, supportive environment for beginners.
Speaking at the event, Kamanda Koroma, Marketing and Communications Manager at Africell Sierra Leone, said the initiative reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to youth development through sports. He noted that Africell continues to invest in platforms that nurture talent across disciplines, with sports playing a key role in youth empowerment.
He added that basketball is one of the fastest-growing sports globally, stressing that the partnership with NBA Africa is focused on long-term development rather than short-term engagement. According to him, sports also serve as a tool for mentorship, discipline, and personal growth among young people.
Koroma further disclosed that Africell recently partnered with the Sierra Leone Basketball Federation and plans to deepen collaboration with NBA Africa to expand youth participation in basketball nationwide.
Representing NBA Africa, Madam Belicent described the clinic as a milestone, marking the organisation’s first collaboration with Africell in Sierra Leone. She said the partnership aligns with shared values of youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, and community engagement, adding that NBA Africa remains committed to strengthening grassroots basketball across the continent.
Ali Hijazi, President of the Sierra Leone Basketball Federation, also praised the initiative, describing it as an important step in strengthening the country’s basketball development pipeline. He commended Africell and NBA Africa for their support and called for sustained collaboration to ensure consistent opportunities for young athletes.
He encouraged participants to apply the skills gained during the clinic and expressed optimism that similar programmes would be expanded in the future.
The initiative forms part of Africell’s broader strategy to promote basketball development in Sierra Leone by equipping young players with foundational skills while fostering discipline, teamwork, and confidence.
