By Alvin Lansana Kargbo
The Youth Alliance for Democracy and Accountability (YADA-SL), in partnership with the National Commission for Democracy (NCD) and with support from IDEA International, on Monday held a Democracy Walk to commemorate the International Day of Democracy 2025, celebrated under the global theme: “Democracy Under Strain: Solutions for a Changing World.”
Speaking during the event, Foday Moriba Conteh, Executive Director of YADA-SL, said the walk was more than a symbolic activity, describing it as “a reminder that democracy is not a finished product it is a continuous journey that requires the participation, vigilance and courage of all citizens.”
Foday Moriba Conteh noted that Sierra Leone’s history has shown the dangers of division and silence, stressing the importance of youth involvement in safeguarding the democratic space. He urged young people to take ownership by holding leaders accountable, defending peace and justice and promoting inclusion.
Highlighting global challenges such as disinformation, polarization, economic hardship and declining trust in institutions, Foday Moriba Conteh underscored that the solutions lie in dialogue, respect for the rule of law and active citizenship led with integrity.
He commended the NCD, IDEA International, media partners and young people who participated in the walk, saying their presence demonstrated collective commitment to building a Sierra Leone where democracy thrives, rights are respected and no one is left behind.
“As we leave here, let us remember that democracy cannot survive on slogans or ceremonies alone. It needs action, responsibility and sacrifice,” Foday Moriba Conteh stated, urging participants to act as ambassadors of democratic values in their communities.
Addressing the gathering, the Chairperson of the National Commission for Democracy (NCD), Marian Angela Samu, commended the Youth Alliance for Democracy and Accountability Sierra Leone (YADA-SL) for organizing the Democracy Walk. She noted that this was not the first time the NCD had worked with YADA-SL, as both institutions have partnered in previous years.
She emphasized that the Commission recognizes young people as the future of Sierra Leone, which is why it consistently ensures that youth are actively involved in discussions about democracy.
“This is not just a celebration at the international level; we are celebrating at the local level. That is why we must recognize the key players locally and you, the young people, are those key players,” she said.
Marian Angela Samu expressed appreciation to the young people who participated in the walk, describing their involvement as a clear sign of their belief in democracy.
Participants extend their sincere appreciation to the Youth Alliance for Democracy and Accountability (YADA-SL), the National Commission for Democracy (NCD) and IDEA International for organizing the Democracy Walk. According to them the initiative gave them the platform to actively engage, learn and demonstrate their commitment to strengthening democracy in Sierra Leone. “Your efforts in involving young people show that our voices matter in shaping a more inclusive and accountable future” participants concluded.
