On December 26, 2023, Chief Minister David Moinina Sengeh, representing President Bio’s government, inaugurated Blind Judo at the Bo Stadium in Sierra Leone. This groundbreaking launch coincided with the inaugural edition of the Sierra Leone National Olympic Committee championship. The introduction of Blind Judo not only broadens the sports landscape in Sierra Leone but also champions inclusivity, offering individuals with visual impairments a platform to display their talents on a grander scale.
Chief Minister Sengeh expressed his delight in witnessing the participants’ transition from school to showcasing their skills on the field for the first time. He praised both the Sierra Leone Judo Association and the International Judo Federation for introducing this innovative initiative in Sierra Leone. “This is a groundbreaking moment in Sierra Leone, and I extend my gratitude to both the Sierra Leone Judo Association and the International Judo Federation,” remarked Sengeh during the launch.
Idriss Massaquoi, President of the Judo Association, revealed that the Blind Judo program had been in development for several months, featuring extensive demonstrations and techniques. The decision to officially launch it during the Sierra Leone National Olympic Committee championship underlined its local and international recognition.
The Sierra Leone National Olympic Committee championship serves as an ideal stage for groundbreaking initiatives that foster diversity and unity through the essence of sportsmanship. This initiative signifies a significant leap towards inclusive sporting opportunities and celebrates the talents of individuals of all abilities in Sierra Leone’s sporting arena.
