By Marian Magdalene Bangura
Strategic Communication Unit, Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MoICE)
In his first major public address since assuming office, the newly appointed Minister of Youth Affairs, Ibrahim Sannoh, Tuesday, 20th May 2025, laid out his ambitious three-year vision for youth empowerment during the government’s weekly press briefing at the Miatta Conference Centre.
Minister Sannoh, who officially began his duties on 15th May following his appointment on 8th April 2025, expressed gratitude to the Minister of Information and Civic Education (MoICE), Chernor Bah, for hosting the press briefing and commended the use of Krio, the national local language, to engage a wider audience across the country.
“This is one of the most educative and impactful programs because it is delivered in Krio, making it accessible to our people in the provinces and beyond,” he said.
Upon taking office, Minister Sannoh prioritized understanding the current state of youth development in Sierra Leone. One of the key documents that guided his strategic planning was the National Youth Policy/Status of Youth Report, which highlights the major concerns and challenges facing young people.
Recognizing gaps in the implementation and clarity of youth initiatives, Minister Sannoh convened a high-level steering committee meeting. Attended by donor representatives and ministerial colleagues, the session allowed for a collaborative review of the report’s findings and generated valuable feedback to shape policy direction.
The minister unveiled his three-year strategic plan, titled “Youth in Entrepreneurship,” which runs from June 2025 to June 2028. The vision emphasizes self-reliance and job creation, positioning youth as architects of their own futures.
“This agenda will empower young people to create jobs for themselves because their future is in their hands,” he emphasized.
The strategy is built around four focus areas: agriculture and agribusiness, climate change policy and adaptation, skills development and technical education, and technology and innovation.
Minister Sannoh placed agriculture at the heart of his empowerment strategy, highlighting its potential to drive economic independence. “We’re going to make agriculture sexy,” he declared, outlining plans to enhance the agricultural value chain and promote value addition. He announced that the sector would feature 70% women and 5% persons with disabilities in all youth-focused initiatives.
TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) Centres will be established in every district, focusing on agriculture-driven skills like operating tractors, harvesters, and dryers. Additional training in fields such as air conditioning repair and general mechanics will also be offered. Beneficiaries will receive startup kits, farming tools, and support for greenhouse farming initiatives.
Climate change adaptation will be integrated with agriculture to promote sustainable development. Youth will be trained to not only adapt to climate challenges but also become advocates for environmental protection.
Minister Sannoh emphasized, “Knowledge is a powerful weapon in the fight against poverty.”
On digital literacy, young people will receive training in digital media, including social media management, content creation, and editing. He also announced plans to establish policies ensuring that digital innovation and tech training, covering areas like coding, cybersecurity, and digital marketing, are accessible to those who cannot afford them.
To enhance career decision-making among university students, the Minister proposed the introduction of course counselors at the university level. This initiative will guide students in selecting programs that align with their skills and future employment prospects, moving beyond traditional disciplines like history, politics, or peace and conflict studies.
“This approach will empower students to make informed choices and enable meaningful participation in society,” he stated.
Minister Sannoh underscored the need to move beyond traditional classroom learning by promoting hands-on experiences, particularly in agribusiness. He also highlighted the importance of strong legal frameworks and improved enforcement mechanisms to support youth programs effectively.
He called for inclusive participation and a collective approach, stating, “For all of us to do it together.”
Efforts are already underway to support youth in greenhouse farming projects, including buy-back schemes, digital marketing training, and career support for non-university educated individuals.
The minister concluded by stressing the importance of creating viable career paths for all youth, regardless of their educational background, through public-private partnerships, community banks, and national policy reform.
