To Foster
Reconciliation: Let's Sports Be the Unifier
-Says Liberian Community in Addis Ababa
April 11, 2003
Siebo D. Williams
Monrovia
The Liberian community in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
is urging the Government of Liberia and sports authorities to use
sports to unify Liberians in these difficult times in the country's
history if reconciliation is to be fostered.
Making the statement during a dinner tendered in
honor of the Lone Star delegation in Addis Ababa, Liberia's Envoy in
Ethiopia, Ambassador Kofa said sports has no boundary, evidenced with
the massive support the Lone Star gets from Liberians at home and
abroad whenever it plays.
"Whenever the Lone Star gets on the field of play,
Liberians from all walks of life render it support.
The Lone Star is the only patrimony that we have to
boast of despite actions by detractors to discredit our country," the
Ambassador said.
He then urged Liberians, the Government and sports
authorities to use sports and unify Liberians in these difficult
times. He said since sports brings Liberians together, it is about
time that much emphasis is placed on sports in the country during this
reconciliation period.
Also speaking at the dinner was the head of the
Lone Star delegation, Mr. Peter W. Kabia. For his part, he expressed
gratitude to the Liberian community in Addis Ababa for the receptive
welcome given the Lone Star, coupled with the support from them during
the match.
Mr. Kabia also hailed the Liberian Community for
demonstrating that there is unity among Liberians be at home or
abroad, despite what is obtaining in the country. "We are happy and
proud that Liberians can join in one accord and carry the country's
flag. The Lone Star is carrying the flag, while you Liberians here in
Addis Ababa working for various international organizations are also
carrying the lone star flag. We are all ambassadors of our country and
we should be proud of that," he stressed.
Addressing the gathering as well was Mr. Christian
King, who represented the Ministry of Youth and Sports on the Lone
Star delegation. Mr. King congratulated the Liberian Community for
opening their arms to the team and also praised them for demonstrating
unity among Liberians.
"In sports there is unity. This is
demonstrated by Liberians in Ethiopia, who despite the odds were seen
at the Haile Sellassie Stadium waving the Liberian flag to cheer the
Lone Star. This is what Liberians want to see- love and unity
flourishing amongst Liberians," Mr. King said.
Commenting further he said, the
dinner held for the Lone Star only signified that no matter what
happened in Liberia, Liberians will always be Liberians and can show
each other hospitality.
He praised the Liberian community which
composition is about six to seven Liberians who are working with
various international organizations, for identifying with the Lone
Star in these difficult times.
The host of dinner, Dr. Clinton, who has
been residing in Addis Ababa for 23 years now also expressed happiness
to host his Liberian brothers and sisters.
"No matter where we are, we will always be Liberians.
When our people are on national duty, it is our binding
duty as Liberians to welcome them home away from home," Dr. Clinton
said.
Meanwhile, the Lone Star was treated well
and served sumptuous meals during the dinner, sending their memory
back home.
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