Disability Sport Network (DiSNet)

Disability Sports Network (DiSNet) was formally established in 2022 as a national civil society organisation but builds on over two decades of experience in promoting inclusion through sport. The organisation grew out of Flying Stars Amputees (FSA), a football team formed by war survivors with amputations following the civil war in Sierra Leone. FSA evolved into a powerful voice for the rights and social integration of persons with disabilities (PLWD). The need for a broader platform to unite different disability groups and work strategically with both sports, rights, and social change led to the founding of DiSNet. DiSNet’s purpose is to promote inclusion, rights, and improved living conditions for PLWD in Sierra Leone. The organisation uses sport as an entry point for empowerment and community building but works more broadly with rights awareness, economic self-reliance, and political advocacy. DiSNet brings together 20 member organisations across four regions and represents more than 600 PLWD. Its organisational structure is democratically built, with elected representatives at the regional level and a national leadership team composed of PLWD themselves. Key activities include sports programmes and weekly training sessions that strengthen solidarity and public visibility; advocacy targeting authorities and employers to advance the rights of PLWD; and awareness campaigns to challenge stigma and discrimination. A special focus is placed on access to employment and sustainable livelihoods, recognising the link between dignity, inclusion, and economic independence. DiSNet works to create concrete improvements in the living conditions, representation, and opportunities of PLWD—and has quickly positioned itself as a credible and mobilising actor at both local and national levels.