The Sierra Leone Judo Association (SLJA) officially launched its gender equality initiative during the inaugural Sierra Leone Judo Female Seminar and training camp, which took place from March 15th to 17th, 2025, at the SLJA Training Academy in Bo City. This significant event, sponsored by the International Judo Federation (IJF), seeks to empower female judoka across the country by improving their skills and fostering a supportive community.
The initiative is part of the IJF’s broader commitment to gender equality in sports and is consistent with the Olympic Charter’s principles of providing inclusive opportunities for all athletes. The Gender Equality Commission was formed as a key highlight of the launch to elevate women’s roles in judo and create a supportive environment for female athletes to thrive.
Notable figures from the sports community attended the event, including Sierra Leone Judo Association President Idrissa Massaquoi and the National Olympic Committee’s Women in Sport Commissioner, Mrs. Permala Williams. The gathering attracted a diverse group of women and representatives from various sporting disciplines and organizations throughout Sierra Leone, all united in their dedication to promoting gender equality in sports.
Mrs. Williams’ opening address emphasized the critical need for increased female representation not only in judo but across all sports in the country. “Today represents a significant step forward for our female athletes. “Empowering and developing women in sports is critical for creating a more equitable society and inspiring future generations of female leaders,” she stated.
The training camp included a comprehensive program led by experienced coaches and international judo experts, with an emphasis on skill development, tactical training, and leadership workshops tailored specifically to female judoka. Participants were encouraged to share their experiences, discuss challenges, and build camaraderie in a supportive setting.
Furthermore, the seminar addressed the importance of promoting gender equality in sports governance and increasing female participation at all levels of judo. The SLJA is dedicated to establishing pathways for aspiring female judoka, ultimately increasing their competitive opportunities on both national and international levels. This initiative is a significant step towards redefining the judo landscape in Sierra Leone, ensuring that women have equal opportunities to excel in the sport.
