Topic: 2025-Safeguarding and Promoting Traditional Sports and Games
Country: Sierra Leone
Delegate Name: Mamy Diop
The Republic of Sierra Leone recognizes the invaluable role of traditional sports and games in preserving cultural heritage, promoting social cohesion, and fostering national identity. As a nation rich in diverse ethnic traditions, Sierra Leone views the safeguarding and promotion of traditional sports as essential for intergenerational knowledge transfer and sustainable development. In line with UNESCO’s efforts to protect intangible cultural heritage, Sierra Leone is committed to revitalizing traditional games while integrating them into national education and sports policies.
Traditional sports and games serve as a bridge between the past and present, reinforcing values such as teamwork, discipline, and resilience. In Sierra Leone, games such as N’golo wrestling, stick fighting, and rope skipping are deeply embedded in cultural traditions. These activities not only entertain but also impart vital skills, instill community pride, and contribute to holistic development. However, globalization, urbanization, and the influence of modern sports have led to the decline of traditional games. Without strategic interventions, these cultural expressions risk being lost, depriving future generations of an essential aspect of their heritage. Sierra Leone believes that preserving and promoting traditional sports will contribute to cultural diversity, tourism, and community engagement.
Sierra Leone is dedicated to working with UNESCO and international partners to safeguard and promote traditional sports and games through:
1. Incorporating Traditional Sports into Education Systems “ Integrating traditional games into school curricula will help ensure their continuity while fostering cultural pride among youth.
2. Community-Based Revitalization Programs Supporting local initiatives that organize traditional sports festivals and competitions will encourage broader participation and awareness.
4. Policy and Funding Support , Advocating for national policies that allocate resources to the preservation of traditional sports, including training programs for coaches and practitioners.
5. Leveraging Media and Technology, Utilizing digital platforms and social media to promote traditional sports, making them more accessible to younger audiences and the global community.
6. International Cooperation, Partnering with other UNESCO member states to share best practices, organize regional traditional sports festivals, and support the inclusion of traditional games in global sporting events.
Sierra Leone urges UNESCO to recognize traditional sports and games as an integral part of cultural heritage that deserves protection and promotion. By investing in their preservation, nations can ensure cultural diversity, foster social inclusion, and enhance community well-being. Sierra Leone reaffirms its commitment to working with UNESCO to develop sustainable strategies that safeguard traditional sports for future generations. The delegation of Sierra Leone looks forward to collaborating with member states to advance this vital cause.
