By: Ishmail Momodu Samura

The Ernest Bai Koroma Trophy Children Foundation held a donation ceremony on Saturday, September 7th, 2024, at the Conference Room of the North East Region Football Association Office in Makeni. During the event, fifty beneficiaries received school supplies, including school bags, geometry sets, pens, and pencils, as part of an annual tradition that has continued since the foundation's establishment eight years ago.

Speaking on behalf of Honourable Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah, the foundation's chief sponsor, Honourable Mohamed Papa Bangura urged attendees not to abandon education despite challenges they may face. He emphasized that education leads to a brighter future, sharing his own story: "I came from humble beginnings in Masuba, and now I am an honourable. I am grateful to God, key stakeholders, community members, and my family. With education, you too can achieve my status and even higher positions in society."

The foundation’s coordinator, Mohamed Milton Koroma, who chaired the event, provided background on the organization. "This foundation grew out of the EBK Trophy eight years ago, as a way to give back to the ballers and other vulnerable children in the community who played a significant role in the tournament," he explained.

Koroma further assured attendees of the foundation's sustainability, saying, "As long as Honourable Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah is alive, this foundation will continue. Even when he is no longer with us, we will be financially strong enough to carry on his vision." He also encouraged beneficiaries to keep Hon. Bah in their prayers, wishing for the fulfillment of his personal dreams.

Abu Bakarr Sheku Marrah, a beneficiary from Makeni Comprehensive Academy, expressed his gratitude to the foundation and urged his peers to use the donated materials wisely to honor the donors' intentions.