By Ajoke A.M. Afolabi
Africell Sierra Leone, in partnership with its key business collaborators, has officially launched the 2025 Freetown Africell Marathon during its annual press conference held on Monday, 17th November 2025. The highly anticipated event is set for December 7th, with the starting point at the Africell HQ Car Park in Wilberforce. This year’s marathon is poised to deliver yet another vibrant celebration of athleticism, health, and community solidarity.
Speaking at the launch, Mr. Kamanda Koroma, Marketing Manager at Africell SL, reflected on the impressive success of last year’s edition, which attracted over 6,000 participants across multiple race categories. He emphasized that the marathon has evolved into more than just a sporting event—it is now a platform for unity and collective purpose.
“This marathon brings together professionals, partners, and everyday Sierra Leoneans to promote fitness, security, well-being, and to showcase the beauty of Freetown as a hub for social transformation,” Koroma noted.
Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the Sports Writers Association President, Frances Bernard, Secretary General of SWASAL, highlighted the role of sports in relieving stress, strengthening community ties, and nurturing emerging talent. She commended Africell for its unwavering dedication to supporting sports development in Sierra Leone.
“Our focus is to tell the compelling stories of the athletes and communities participating, ensuring this marathon receives the broad national and international coverage it deserves,” Bernard said.
Several partner organizations echoed their support for the initiative.
Bobson, representing Street Child Sierra Leone, underscored the marathon’s positive influence on vulnerable children, providing them with motivation and inclusion through sport.
Dalton Shyllon, Head of Media at the Sierra Leone Athletics Association (SLAA), applauded the synergy among Africell, SLAA, and the Ministry of Sports, assuring the public of the association’s full commitment to an efficient and well-coordinated race day.
Africell’s Chief Executive Officer, Shadi Gerjawi, emphasized the marathon’s growing international profile, noting increased engagement from countries such as Congo. He also unveiled the prize structure for this year’s competition:
• 5km (Men & Women): NLe 7,500
• 10km (Men & Women): NLe 12,500
• Half Marathon: NLe 17,500
Gerjawi added that organizers are planning to introduce a full marathon category in next year’s edition to elevate the event to global standards.
As Africell continues to strengthen its footprint as both a telecommunications leader and a driver of social impact, the Freetown Africell Marathon remains a flagship event promoting health, unity, and national pride. This year’s edition promises to build on past successes and reaffirm the marathon’s growing importance in Sierra Leone’s sporting landscape.
