Monrovia – The Ministry of Youth and Sports has announced that a total of L$13.5 million and US$31,200 were raised from ticket sales during the 2024 National County Sports Meet. According to Youth and Sports Minister J. Cole Bangalu, these amounts cover the quarterfinals, semifinals, third place, and grand finals.
Addressing the media on Thursday, Minister Bangalu reaffirmed his commitment to making transparency the hallmark of the Ministry’s operations, stating that the National County Sports Meet is no exception. He emphasized that the event was not conducted in the manner he desired because it was planned and organized before he became Minister.
Minister Bangalu revealed that ticket duplication by employees of the printing press contracted to print the tickets significantly reduced income from the quarter-finals to the grand finals. He disclosed that a vehicle containing thousands of tickets and about half a million Liberian dollars was uncovered, leading to several arrests. The case is being forwarded to court.
According to Minister Bangalu, the total monies generated from the quarter-finals to the grand finals were L$13,555,485 and US$31,213, while total expenditures were L$6,295,554.50 and US$23,264.10. He stated that the Ministry paid 10% of the total amount generated to the Liberian Revenue Authority (LRA) as lawful tax, leaving the Ministry with a total cash balance of L$7,259,930.50 and US$7,948.90.
Minister Bangalu further disclosed that L$5.7 million and US$13,500 were generated during the grand finale, while L$4.1 million and US$13,200 were raised on semi-final day two involving Lofa and Bomi, and Grand Bassa and Montserrado. He added that ticket sales at the four venues during the group stage were solely managed by the host counties.
The Sports Minister also announced that the full financial report covering sponsorship and government support will be released soon.
Support for Senior Lone Star Football Team
In a related development, the Ministry of Youth and Sports has presented L$1,000,000 to the Senior Lone Star Football team as they prepare for their next soccer match in South Africa against Namibia. The Ministry also provided US$4,000 to Coach Mario Marinica for his upkeep.
