By Hassan Osman Kargbo
In a groundbreaking move toward political inclusivity and youth engagement, the Minister of Youth Affairs, Hon. Ibrahim Sannoh, on Thursday made a historic visit to the headquarters of the main opposition All People’s Congress (APC) Party in Freetown. The visit has been widely praised as a bold step toward national unity and a demonstration of the government’s commitment to serving all young people, regardless of political affiliation.
Accompanied by his wife, daughter, and Deputy Minister Patrick Gibrilla Michaels, Hon. Sannoh met with youth aligned with the APC, delivering a compelling message of unity and shared national purpose.
“This visit is not about politics; it is about purpose. As Minister for all young people, I believe it’s time to rise above party lines and focus on nation-building through youth empowerment,” Minister Sannoh stated during the engagement.
He revealed plans to formally write to the APC Youth Wing to establish structured engagement and collaboration, emphasizing that every Sierra Leonean youth — including those affiliated with opposition parties — must be included in the national development dialogue.
Photos of the Minister’s warm and candid interactions with APC youth quickly went viral on social media, sparking widespread praise and generating constructive national dialogue across digital platforms and traditional media outlets. The visit is already being described as a turning point in efforts to bridge partisan divides among the country’s youth population.
Political commentators and civic leaders commended the Minister’s approach, calling it a model for inclusive governance. “Hon. Sannoh continues to set the tone for a new era of leadership — one where inclusion is not a slogan, but a daily practice,” remarked one commentator on national radio.
The visit also symbolized a broader political and social shift under the leadership of the Ministry of Youth Affairs. Since assuming office, Minister Sannoh has prioritized national cohesion, gender inclusion, and youth empowerment through innovative programs, open dialogue, and grassroots engagement. His latest outreach reinforces the message that development must be a collective effort, with young people playing a central role.
Critics who have long called for greater political tolerance and cross-party engagement among youth hailed the move as both courageous and strategic. By reaching across the aisle, Minister Sannoh has positioned himself as a unifying figure capable of building trust between young people of differing political backgrounds.
“This is the kind of leadership Sierra Leone needs,” said one youth leader in attendance. “It shows that our leaders can put the country first and recognize that youth development knows no political boundaries.”
As Sierra Leone continues its journey toward sustainable peace and inclusive development, this historic visit by the Minister of Youth Affairs sends a powerful signal: that unity, respect, and cooperation among the nation’s youth are not only possible — they are essential.
Minister Sannoh’s visit to the APC headquarters stands as a testament to his belief that young people, regardless of political identity, are vital agents of change in shaping Sierra Leone’s future.
