By Mohamed Bangura
The Masineh Youth Organization was formally launched on Christmas Day in a colourful and well-attended ceremony at Masineh Village, bringing together village elders, parents, youths, and members of the organization’s executive.
The event, which marked a major milestone for youth organization and participation in the village, opened with prayers led by respected village elders. The Chairman of the organization, Mohamed Bangura, officially welcomed participants and declared the ceremony open, describing the launch as “a new chapter for the youths of Masineh and a platform for unity, responsibility, and development.”
Explaining the background to the formation of the organization, the Secretary General, Alhassan Conteh, told the gathering that the idea was inspired by youth organizations he encountered during his time at the university. He said the vision was shared with the Chairman, Mohamed Bangura, and later with Samuel Bangura, both of whom embraced the initiative.
According to him, the mobilization of youths through group discussions and consultations eventually led to the formal establishment of the Masineh Youth Organization.
Presenting the organization’s early achievements, the Public Relations Officer (PRO), Mohamed Turay, highlighted the group’s contribution toward the completion of the Masineh Village mosque and its involvement in other community development efforts. He noted that these achievements demonstrated the seriousness and commitment of the youths, even before the official launch.
The executive structure of the organization was later introduced by John Mustapha Koroma, who also serves as the Auditor General. He presented the full list of office holders, including the Financial Secretary, Samuel Bangura; Deputy Financial Secretary, Abubakarr Conteh; Chairlady, Salamatu Turay; and members of the Advisory Committee.
The introduction was met with applause from community members.
During discussions on membership, the Chairman invited the Financial Secretary to call the names of committed members, distinguishing them from inactive ones.
Addressing concerns raised, the PRO explained the situation to parents and elders. In their response, village elders advised against removing inactive members, encouraging patience and stressing that continued development work would inspire wider participation.
The ceremony concluded with the distribution of official membership forms to active members and a closing prayer. A group photograph taken under a tree in the village crowned the successful event.
Overall, the launch was peaceful and successful, reinforcing unity among youths and elders and renewing collective commitment to the social and developmental progress of Masineh Village.
