National Paralympics Committee Presents FAZA Grand Prix Bronze Medalist to NOC President

The Sierra Leone National Paralympics Committee (SLE-NPC) on Thursday, February 26, 2026, formally presented the country’s Women’s Javelin bronze medalist at the FAZA World Para Athletics Grand Prix, Elizabeth Sidimba, to the President of the National Olympic Committee of Sierra Leone (NOC-SLE), Prince Vandy Sualley.

Sidimba secured third place in a highly competitive javelin final, finishing behind athletes from India and Uganda, who claimed gold and silver, respectively. Her podium finish marked a significant milestone for Sierra Leone on the international para-athletics stage and reflected months of rigorous training and preparation by both the athlete and her technical team.

The presentation ceremony took place at the NOC/CGA-SLE headquarters at 13 Walpole Street in Freetown and was chaired by the Secretary General, Ahmed Khanou. Speaking at the event, SLE-NPC President Unisa Deen Kargbo expressed profound appreciation to the NOC for its continued financial and moral support toward the participation of Sierra Leone’s Paralympic athletes in international competitions.

Kargbo disclosed that although four athletes were initially lined up to compete at the Grand Prix, only three eventually participated due to classification procedures. He commended the overall performance of the team, noting that the athletes demonstrated determination and resilience throughout the competition.

“Elizabeth Sidimba competed in both the Shot Put and Javelin events. In the Javelin throw, she finished third and brought home a bronze medal for Sierra Leone,” Kargbo stated. He further explained that the FAZA World Para Athletics Grand Prix represents one of three qualification phases for major international championships.

He also revealed that Abdulai Mattia, who competes in the 100 metres and Long Jump, is progressing steadily on the road to qualification and is expected to compete in South Africa as part of the qualification process.

In his response, NOC President Prince Vandy Sualley commended the leadership and strategic direction of the Paralympics Committee, noting that the country’s para-sports movement is heading in the right direction. He congratulated Sidimba, her coaches, and the entire SLE-NPC administration for raising Sierra Leone’s flag on the global stage.

President Sualley assured the delegation of the NOC’s unwavering commitment to supporting the growth and development of para-sports across the country, emphasizing that inclusivity remains central to the Olympic movement in Sierra Leone.

Before the presentation at the NOC, the SLE-NPC had formally introduced Sidimba and her achievement to the National Sports Authority and the Ministry of Sports as part of broader efforts to highlight and celebrate the success of Sierra Leonean athletes with disabilities.

Sidimba’s bronze medal performance not only underscores her personal dedication but also signals growing momentum for para-athletics in Sierra Leone as the nation continues its push toward greater international recognition and qualification for major global competitions.