By Hassan Osman Kargbo
Sierra Leone’s Minister of Youth Affairs, Mr Ibrahim Sannoh, has called for bold and inclusive youth led action to accelerate development during a high level engagement at the ECOSOC Youth Forum 2026 in New York.
Addressing global leaders, development partners, and youth representatives at a side event, the Minister emphasized that young people should no longer be viewed as passive beneficiaries of policies but as active drivers of change. He urged governments and international institutions to invest in practical and sustainable solutions that will enable youth to contribute meaningfully toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
Sannoh highlighted the importance of creating opportunities that are inclusive and accessible to all young people, particularly those from marginalized communities. He noted that without deliberate efforts to address inequality, many young people risk being left behind in the global development agenda.
He also pointed to skills development as a critical area requiring urgent attention. According to him, equipping young people with relevant skills will not only improve their employability but also empower them to become innovators and problem solvers within their communities. He stressed that investment in education and vocational training must be aligned with current and emerging demands in the global economy.
In addition, the Minister called for stronger partnerships among governments, private sector actors, and development organizations. He underscored the need for these collaborations to be supported by adequate funding and clear accountability mechanisms to ensure that commitments translate into tangible outcomes.
During his address, Sannoh announced a new initiative aimed at mobilizing youth volunteers across key sectors, including education, health, climate action, and peacebuilding. He explained that the initiative seeks to harness the energy and creativity of young people while providing them with opportunities to contribute directly to national and global development efforts.
“This is about creating platforms where young people can take action and make a real difference,” he said, adding that structured volunteerism can serve as a bridge between policy and impact on the ground.
The Minister concluded by calling on stakeholders to move beyond commitments and focus on delivering measurable progress. He urged leaders to match their promises with concrete actions that improve the lives of young people.
At the same time, he encouraged young people to remain actively engaged in governance and development processes, stressing the importance of holding leaders accountable. He noted that sustained youth participation is essential for building transparent and responsive institutions.
Observers at the forum described the Minister’s intervention as timely and forward looking, reflecting Sierra Leone’s growing role in global conversations on youth empowerment. As discussions continue, the message from Sierra Leone is clear that meaningful development can only be achieved when young people are placed at the center of action and decision making.
