The initiative aligns with the IJF's commitment to gender equality in sport and adheres to the Olympic Charter’s principles of promoting inclusive opportunities for all athletes. The establishment of the Gender Equality Commission was one of the key highlights during the opening ceremony, with the aim of advancing the role of women in judo and creating a supportive environment for female athletes.
The launch event was graced by prominent figures in the sports community, including the President of the Sierra Leone Judo Association, Idrissa Massaquoi, and Mrs Permala Williams, the Women in Sport Commissioner from the National Olympic Committee. The occasion also attracted a diverse group of women, representatives from various sporting disciplines and organisations throughout the country, all united in their commitment to fostering gender equality in sport.
In her opening remarks, Mrs Williams emphasised the importance of female representation not only in judo but across all sports in Sierra Leone. "Today marks a significant step forward for our female athletes. The empowerment and development of women in sport is crucial for building a more equitable society and for inspiring future generations of female leaders," she stated.
The training camp, facilitated by experienced coaches and international judo experts, offered a comprehensive programme that included skill development, tactical training and leadership workshops tailored for female judoka. Participants were encouraged to share their experiences, discuss challenges and cultivate camaraderie among female athletes in a supportive setting.
The seminar also featured discussions on the importance of promoting gender equality in sport governance and increasing female participation at all levels of judo. The SLJA aims to create pathways for aspiring female judoka, ultimately enhancing their competitive opportunities both nationally and internationally.