By Hassan Osman Kargbo
In a hopeful declaration for the nation’s economic future, the Deputy Minister of Trade, Madam Fatmata Kargbo, addressed attendees during the inaugural Salone Civic Festival organized by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MoICE).
Speaking at the lively event, Madam Kargbo emphasized the progressive initiatives being undertaken by President Julius Maada Bio’s administration to ensure substantial economic development and improvement of market conditions leading up to the year 2025.
The Salone Civic Festival, aimed at strengthening civic engagement and fostering community solidarity, drew a diverse crowd of citizens, local businesses, and government officials at the Youyi Building in Freetown. Themes of unity, empowerment, and progress reverberated throughout the festival, which featured workshops, performances, and interactive sessions focused on promoting civic knowledge and community-building.
In an interview with the Deputy Minister, she outlined specific initiatives the government plans to implement to stimulate economic growth.
She underscored the importance of infrastructure development, improved trade regulations, and emphasis on local production to enhance market accessibility. “Under President Bio’s leadership, we are prioritizing reforms that will create an enabling environment for business,” Kargbo affirmed. “By 2025, we expect to see a thriving marketplace where goods are affordable, accessible, and of high quality.”
Madam Kargbo’s statements come at a time when many citizens express concern over the high cost of living and the challenging economic landscape faced by ordinary Sierra Leoneans.
The Deputy Minister urged the public to remain optimistic, highlighting that the government has taken crucial steps towards enhancing the agricultural sector, which he believes would significantly impact food prices and overall market stability.
In addition, she assured the public that the administration is committed to ensure that the benefits of economic growth are equitably distributed. “We are dedicated to creating jobs that not only empower individuals but also uplift families and communities. The development of small and medium enterprises will be at the forefront of our strategy,” Kargbo stated, promising that practical support and resources would be made available for entrepreneurs and local business owners.
The Deputy Minister’s speech resonated well with many festival-goers, who expressed a sense of hope and excitement about the prospects for economic improvement. “It’s encouraging to hear that our government is focused on making tangible changes.
As the festivities continued, the message of growth and unity prevailed, underscoring the vital role citizens play in fostering a prosperous future for the nation.
The Salone Civic Festival served not only as a celebration of culture and community but also as a platform for envisioning a more prosperous Sierra Leone, where trust in governmental leadership is a catalyst for development and progress.
With anticipated changes on the horizon, Sierra Leoneans remain hopeful that the promises made today will materialize into the reality they so desperately seek by 2025.
2024 Civic Festival…
