By Hassan Osman Kargbo
The Board Chair of the Sierra Leone Association of Non-Governmental Organizations (SLANGO), Mr. Christian Martyn Kamara, has made a passionate appeal for greater investment in youth empowerment and inclusion, describing young people as the “true drivers of national transformation.”
Speaking at a high-level networking event on youth development cooperation held at the Country Lodge, Hill Station, Freetown, Mr. Kamara delivered a powerful message that resonated with policymakers, development partners, and youth representatives present at the gathering. The event was graced by Sierra Leone’s First Lady and President of the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), Her Excellency Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, who delivered the keynote address.
In his remarks, Mr. Kamara began by congratulating the newly appointed Minister of Youth, Hon. Ibrahim Sannoh, for his resilience and determination in reaching this level of leadership. He commended the Minister’s efforts to engage civil society organizations in shaping the ministry’s strategic direction, emphasizing that such collaboration is crucial to advancing the youth development agenda.
Mr. Kamara described young people as the heart and strength of Sierra Leone’s future, noting that they represent creativity, innovation, and hope. He said that for the nation to move forward, the government and all stakeholders must treat youth issues with urgency and sincerity.
“The time is now for the youth to take leadership positions and contribute meaningfully to the growth of this country,” he stated. “Young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are the leaders of today. But they must work hard, stay disciplined, and earn that leadership through action and commitment.”
He urged government ministries, departments, and agencies to move beyond promises and create tangible opportunities for youth participation in decision-making and governance. According to him, empowering young people should not be viewed as an act of charity but as a strategic investment in Sierra Leone’s development.
“If the young people decide to support someone, that person could become the next president of Sierra Leone,” Mr. Kamara noted, underscoring the political and social power of youth in shaping the country’s future. “They are powerful, intelligent, and capable. We must take them seriously.”
Mr. Kamara further called on development partners and the private sector to collaborate with civil society organizations in building youth capacity, promoting entrepreneurship, and expanding access to education and employment.
He concluded by emphasizing that national development cannot be achieved without the active participation of young people. “When we empower the youth, we strengthen the nation. It’s time for everyone, government, civil society, and communities to work together and give young people the platform they deserve,” he said.
The event ended with a renewed call for unity, collaboration, and sustained action toward empowering Sierra Leone’s youth for leadership and national progress.
