Africell Sierra Leone has once again demonstrated its commitment to youth empowerment and national pride by providing crucial financial backing to the country’s U16 basketball team ahead of the FIBA U16 AfroBasket 2025 Tournament in Kigali, Rwanda.
The competition, which runs from September 2–14, will feature twelve national teams from across Africa. The two finalists will secure spots at the FIBA U17 Basketball World Cup 2026 in Türkiye.
Ali Hijazi, president of the Sierra Leone Basketball Federation thanked Africell for stepping up again, noting that the telecom giant matched funds raised through a nationwide campaign to guarantee the team’s participation.
“From the very beginning, Africell has been instrumental in providing equipment, financial resources, and ensuring these young athletes represent Sierra Leone on the continental stage. Their support is truly inspiring for both the team and the nation,” Hijazi said.
Abdul Karim Sesay, Africell’s media relations manager said that the company views sports as a key pillar of its corporate social responsibility. “Supporting sports is not just about competition. It is a source of motivation, a symbol of patriotism, and a beacon of hope for these young boys who see basketball as their pathway to success,” Sesay noted.
The U16 squad travels to Kigali with strong momentum, having clinched gold at the regional qualifiers in Guinea. Their participation marks another proud moment for Sierra Leone, as the green, white, and blue flag continues to rise in continental basketball.
The partnership between Africell and the Sierra Leone Basketball Federation highlights the power of strategic corporate investment in unlocking talent, empowering youth, and building a sustainable future for sports in the country.
