Calls for Kickball to Be Recognized as Liberia’s National Treasure
Reported by: Naneka Hoffman
Monrovia, Liberia – Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan, Liberia’s Minister of Finance and Development Planning, has reiterated the government’s dedication to promoting sports development, promising more support for programs meant to strengthen the industry and improve kickball as a distinctively Liberian sport worthy of recognition on a national and worldwide scale.
Minister Ngafuan called for increased support and promotion of kickball, which he regarded as one of Liberia’s most distinctive cultural and sports assets, during his keynote speech at the 2nd Sports Writers Association of Liberia (SWAL) Awards. Kickball should be legally protected, appropriately labelled, and promoted globally as a sport with Liberian roots, according to the Minister.
“We all grew up believing kickball was played everywhere in the world, only to later discover that it is a Liberian innovation,” he narrated. “We must protect it, or risk losing ownership of something that belongs to us. We need to work with the Liberia Tourism Authority and other stakeholders to brand and market kickball as a national treasure.”
Minister Ngafuan gave stakeholders the assurance that the government will look at ways to raise the funds required to promote the sport and increase its visibility both domestically and globally. “Whatever resources are needed to promote this sport, we will work to find them,” he promised, adding that national development objectives should include sports development.
Minister Ngafuan expressed hope that Liberia would eventually make it to the FIFA World Cup and urged more funding for football and other sports. “That dream is achievable,” he insisted. “We can work toward the day when Liberians gather in stadiums and viewing centers across the country to watch our national team compete at the World Cup.”
Minister Ngafuan highlighted the government’s increasing investment in the industry, pointing out that the current fiscal budget includes a record rise in support for sports. He also pledged to push for increased allocations in subsequent budgets to maintain growth and development. Speaking to a group of journalists, players, sports administrators, and government officials, Minister Ngafuan honoured the forerunners of sports journalism whose commitment shaped the field and advanced sports in Liberia.
“Sports journalists may think their work is ordinary, but many young people look up to them as role models,” he intimated. “Through your reporting, you are shaping minds, inspiring future generations, and contributing to national development.”
The Finance Minister highlighted how sports can bring people together and provide possibilities for Liberia’s young people. He acknowledged that sports compete with other critical sectors such as education, agriculture, roads, and energy for government funding, but stressed that investing in sports remains essential to the country’s development agenda.
“Sports is a unifier,” he noted. “When Liberia wins, everyone celebrates regardless of their background. Sports gives hope to our young people and helps build a stronger nation.”
Recognising sports journalists’ critical role in fostering excellence and national unity, he also promised to continue supporting media development and professional growth opportunities for them. Minister Ngafuan concluded by congratulating all award recipients and urging nominees and winners to continue their dedication to diligence and ongoing development.
“Those who received awards should not rest on their achievements, and those who did not win should remain focused and keep striving for excellence,” he advised. “Excellence must always be our standard.”
The 2nd SWAL Awards honoured people and organizations that have made major contributions to the expansion and improvement of sports in Liberia and recognized exceptional accomplishments in sports journalism. In a celebration of quality, professionalism, and the transformative potential of sports, the event brought together important stakeholders from the government, media, sports industry, and development community.
