By Sulaiman Aruna Sesay

Sierra Leone is a country with great potential, yet it is faced with numerous challenges such as poverty, high unemployment rate, and lack of access to basic services. Despite these challenges, the youth in Sierra Leone have the power to drive change and create a better future for themselves and their country. One source of inspiration for the youth of Sierra Leone could be the newly elected President of Senegal, Bassirou Diomaye Faye.

The 44-year-old pan-Africanist has never before held an elected office. Faye was one of a group of political opponents freed from prison 10 days before the March 24 presidential ballot under an amnesty announced by Sall who had tried to delay the vote. Faye’s campaign was launched whilst he was still in detention. The former tax inspector will become the West African state’s fifth president since independence from France in 1960 and the first to openly admit to a polygamous marriage. Despite all the challenges Mr. Faye faced, he stood the test of time and achieved the highest position in his land. The youth of Sierra Leone should use Faye’s victory as a wakeup call to take the centre stage in politics and there are other reasons why young people should involve in politics in Sierra Leone.

One important reason why young people in Sierra Leone should engage in politics is that they possess unique perspectives, skills, and experiences that can help shape policies and programs that are designed to meet the needs of their generation. As the next generation of leaders, it is essential that young people have a say in shaping their future and the future of their country. Empowering young people to have a say in politics can also help to promote more inclusive and democratic governance. By involving youth in decision-making processes, political leaders can build trust and legitimacy among this demographic, and help to foster a culture of participatory citizenship.

Young people must be actively involved in politics to create a culture of accountability and transparency within the political system. By holding elected officials accountable for their actions and decisions, young people can ensure that their voices are heard and that policies and programs are designed to serve the greater good. Youth should always stay informed.  Keep yourself up to date with current events and issues that affect your community and beyond. Follow reliable news sources, read books, and attend seminars. Youth should know about the daily happenings in the country so they cannot get misinformed by the old folks who don’t want to give chance for young people to excel.

Young people should also engage in politics to bring new energy and ideas into the political arena. The youth have a fresh perspective on issues and challenges that can help generate innovative solutions to existing problems. Through their involvement, young people can help to reshape the political landscape and drive change that reflects the needs and aspirations of their generation.

The newly elected President of Senegal in 2024, Bassirou Diomaye Faye , has shown that engaging young people in politics can help bring about positive change within a country. The youth of Sierra Leone must take inspiration from his example and work towards actively participating in the political process. Their involvement and engagement in politics will not only shape their future but that of their country as well.