By Mackie M. Jalloh
The Ministry of Information and Civic Education in Sierra Leone is gearing up to host the inaugural Salone Civic Festival, a groundbreaking event aimed at fostering civic engagement, national pride, and responsible citizenship. Scheduled to take place from December 11-12, 2024, at the Youyi Building, this festival promises to be an immersive experience where citizens and government officials come together to celebrate Sierra Leone’s culture, discuss key national policies, and promote the government’s “Big Five” agenda. The event represents a unique opportunity for Sierra Leoneans to engage directly with their government, understand its priorities, and participate actively in shaping the nation’s future.
Building Bridges Between Government and Citizens
Organized by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MOICE), the festival is a part of a broader initiative to strengthen the relationship between the government and its people. Through interactive learning, cultural celebrations, and policy discussions, the Salone Civic Festival aims to make government processes more transparent and accessible to the public. The event reflects the government’s commitment to inclusivity, collaboration, and openness, emphasizing that progress and development in Sierra Leone rely on a unified national effort. By providing platforms for engagement, MOICE hopes to empower citizens to play an active role in the nation’s development, encouraging them to see themselves as partners in the government’s mission for a better Sierra Leone.
Festival Highlights: An Array of Activities for Civic Engagement
The Salone Civic Festival will feature a diverse lineup of events and activities, each carefully curated to engage attendees and create a dynamic environment for learning and interaction. The following highlights illustrate the scope and impact the festival intends to achieve:
- Interactive Booths and “Big Five” Exhibitions: Various government ministries will host booths that allow citizens to interact directly with officials, ask questions, and gain insights into the “Big Five” agenda, which outlines key government priorities. These interactive exhibits will showcase the government’s progress on initiatives aimed at improving sectors like education, health, infrastructure, and digital transformation. Citizens will have the chance to see firsthand how government projects are shaping their communities and discuss ideas or concerns directly with policymakers.
- Engagement with National Policy and Leadership: One of the main features of the festival is interactive sessions with senior government officials and leaders. These dialogues will provide attendees with an understanding of national policies and their implications on daily life. By involving citizens in discussions about Sierra Leone’s future, the festival promotes accountability and encourages the public to take an active role in governance. This engagement can bridge gaps between the public and the government, helping citizens feel more connected to the decisions that affect their lives.
- Cultural and Arts Celebrations: To honor Sierra Leone’s rich cultural heritage, the festival will feature music, art exhibitions, and fashion displays. These cultural showcases aim to highlight the unique traditions and diversity of Sierra Leone, fostering a sense of national pride among attendees. Additionally, the festival will include a “Food Fair,” which will celebrate local cuisine, inviting citizens to enjoy and appreciate traditional flavors that form part of the nation’s identity.
- Launch of New Civic Platforms and Strategies: Different government ministries will use this opportunity to unveil new platforms, policies, and strategies that have been in development over the past year. A highlight of this segment is the launch of the new Civic Education Strategy, which includes six core pillars—Love Salone, Feed Salone, Clean Salone, Heal Salone, Digitize Salone, and Salone for We All. This initiative is designed to instill national pride and promote responsible citizenship, inspiring people to actively contribute to Sierra Leone’s growth and sustainability. The strategy’s comprehensive approach addresses multiple aspects of development, from environmental cleanliness to technological advancement.
- Live Performances and Film Screenings: The festival will also feature live music performances, film screenings, and cultural displays that celebrate Sierra Leone’s artistic talent. These performances aim to entertain, inspire, and foster a sense of unity and community among attendees. By showcasing local talent, the festival emphasizes the role of culture and the arts in shaping national identity and promoting social cohesion.
- Civic Awards: In recognition of individuals and groups who have made significant contributions to civic and national development, the festival will conclude with an awards ceremony. These awards celebrate the efforts of citizens who exemplify dedication to their communities and the nation, setting an example of responsible and impactful civic engagement. Honoring these contributions reinforces the importance of community involvement and serves as an inspiration for others to contribute positively to society.
#SaloneBigPasWiAll: A Call for Unity and Participation
With the hashtag #SaloneBigPasWiAll, the Salone Civic Festival carries a message of inclusivity and shared responsibility. It reminds Sierra Leoneans that the nation’s progress is a collective endeavor, one that requires the involvement and commitment of every citizen. As the festival brings people together to celebrate, learn, and discuss the future, it fosters a sense of belonging and purpose, encouraging everyone to contribute to the development of a united and resilient Sierra Leone.
Looking Ahead: A Vision for Sierra Leone’s Future
The Salone Civic Festival is more than just an event; it is a step toward building a strong civic culture in Sierra Leone. By encouraging open dialogue, transparency, and participation, the festival paves the way for a more inclusive approach to governance. The Ministry of Information and Civic Education, through this festival, is setting a precedent for how government and citizens can work together to address the country’s challenges and opportunities. The Salone Civic Festival marks the beginning of a new era of civic pride, national unity, and active citizenship in Sierra Leone, reinforcing that Sierra Leone’s strength lies in its people and their shared vision for the future.
