Liberia's Special Envoy for Sport, Alioune Kebe, has expressed gratitude to President Joseph Boakai for naming him and reiterated his dedication to leveraging sports as a means of empowering young people, fostering change, and promoting national cohesion.

In an extensive report covering his initial year in office—from April 2024 to April 2025—Ambassador Kebe highlighted significant accomplishments such as setting up several sports academies, making personal monetary donations, and backing national teams. These efforts were aimed at realizing President Boakai's ARREST Agenda.

Kebe expressed deep appreciation for the honor and privilege of serving as the Ambassador-at-Large for Youth and Sports Development," he stated. "The trust you have placed in me fuels an unwavering dedication to expanding prospects for Liberia’s young people and using sports as a driving force for societal transformation.

One of the key initiatives during his term was the launch of the Professional Sports Academy (PSA) in October 2024. This academy focuses on helping vulnerable young people struggling with substance abuse issues. It provides them with organized athletic training, mentoring, healthcare services, meals, and educational support. Currently, the program assists numerous boys and girls nationwide, particularly emphasizing specialized instruction in soccer, handball, and kickball.

Kebe also initiated Liberia’s inaugural Kickball Academy exclusively for girls between the ages of 12 and 17. This program formalizes a cherished national game, providing young women athletes with an opportunity to hone their abilities, engage in competition, and evolve into leaders.

As part of an innovative initiative, the Ambassador launched Liberia’s inaugural Goalkeeper Academy aimed at filling the persistent void in advanced soccer coaching. Situated within Invincible Park, this facility educates 35 teenage girls between 12 and 17 years old with guidance from six seasoned trainers. The trainees benefit from top-tier teaching, nutritional support, and state-of-the-art gear for their sessions.

"These academies serve as more than mere training grounds—they act as focal points for fostering leadership, instilling discipline, and nurturing national pride," stated Kebe.

Kebe provided essential equipment and logistical assistance to Liberia’s U-18 and U-20 national basketball squads, facilitating their involvement in global competitions. Furthermore, he was instrumental in backing the U-18 Women's Football Team as they advanced through the 2025 World Cup qualifier rounds, culminating in an unprecedented win against Senegal.

Looking back at his initial year, Kebe highlighted that all accomplishments align with President Boakai's ARREST Initiative, focusing on youth rehabilitation and the rejuvenation of sports in Liberia.

“I remain completely committed to making sure that the initiatives I lead keep promoting development, cohesion, and excellence within Liberia’s sporting environment,” he stated. “It is an honor to be of service and I anticipate generating enduring positive changes for the nation’s young people.”

Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. ( Syndigate.info ).