Africell Sierra Leone has on the 16th November 2009 presented a cheque of Le200, 000, 000 (Two Hundred Million Leones) for the sponsorship of the Sierra Leone Premier League, which is presently underway at the Main Bowl of the National Stadium.

The presentation ceremony was done at the Sierra Leone Football Association Academy, Kingtom in Freetown.

The Chief Commercial Officer, Africell, Mr. Bernard Sesay noted that they are proud to once again be the main sponsor of the Salone Premier League. "As the company’s motto goes: ‘Bringing People Closer’, we are ready to bring Sierra Leoneans together through sports", he explained.

He further revealed that football is generally recognized as the most popular sport in the world, adding that Sierra Leone is no exception.

(L-R) SLFA Prexy, Nahim Khadi, SLFA VP J.S. Kelfala, Africell's CCO, Bernard Sisay, Sports Director, Bai Kabia, Hon. Nuru-Deen Sankoh Yillah & Alpha Timbo PLB Chairman

Mr. Sesay said Africell’s passion for sport does not only apply to football, but also to other sports, whilst informing his audience that the company is presently sponsoring "Africell Inter-Regional Volley Ball Competition", attracting Sierra Leoneans from all the four regions in the country.

According to him, this is a demonstration of Africell’s passion and commitment to the development of the country in all spheres, whilst assuring that they will continue to support and invest in areas that will significantly contribute to the promotion of peace, development and unity in the country.

(L-R) SLFA VP, Joseph S. Kelfala making statement whiles Africell CCO looks on

He concluded by expressing special thanks to the Premier League Board and all those that are playing diverse roles towards the promotion of sport in the country. "It is the desire of Africell to see our sponsorship develop the game so loved by everybody," he said.

Chairman of the National Premier League Board, Mr. Alpha O. Timbo, welcomed Africell to the premiership football, after a short brake in the partnership with the Sierra Leone Football Associations. He added that the interregnum has clearly demonstrated the company’s commitment to the promotion of sports in the country, with particular reference to the premiership football. Mr. Timbo stated further that they are prepared to welcome in good faith whatever contribution made by Africell.

(R) Alpha Timbo shaking hands with Africell's CCO Bernard

He commended the Managing Director of Africell, noting that the Board recognizes the company’s positive and timely response to their request for making available the sum of Le 200, 000, 000 for the premier league which will enhance the public relations aspect of the Board and League.

In his statement, the Chairman Parliamentary Oversight Committee on Sports, Honorable Nuru Deen commended Africell for bringing life again to the sport, adding that the competition will achieve its aim with such support.

Africell's CCO, Bernard Sisay delivering his statement