Minister of Youth Affairs - Sierra Leone

I departed Samoa today for the state of Iowa in the United States to attend the World Food Prize. Our focus on delivering on Feed Salone has attracted credible partners and support from multilateral institutions. We are committed to ensuring that we Feed Salone.

Updates from the Young Women Leading Innovation Challenge being implemented by @Youthaffairsmin and @UNFPASierraleon. We've received nearly 300 applications from female led organizations across the country. After careful consideration, we've shortlisted 73 for the next phase.

Today marked a significant step towards peace in Sierra Leone with the signing of the National Agreement among the Bike Riders Union, Sierra Leone Police, and the Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority. With a membership of 1,256,000, bike riders are uniquely positioned for peace.

The @ITCnews is in Sierra Leone to discuss the implementation of a $9M four-year project titled 'Empowering Youth through Digital Technologies' (2024-2028). This initiative aims to enhance youth participation in the digital economy, focusing particularly on young women.

@PresidentBio’s heartfelt birthday message to @ebklegacy exemplifies true statesmanship and unity. In a time when divisions are prevalent, this gesture encourages all Sierra Leoneans to rise above politics and collaborate for national development.

@LansanaDumbuya I think we should celebrate as a nation especially when the funds addresses critical sector like energy that will eventually bolster production and enhance critical development... Let's celebrate @PresidentBio and the people of Sierra leone for this. This is no time for politics

The MCC ought not to have been granted to the Government of Sierra Leone at this point in time, as it should only be awarded after the government addresses election rigging and implements Tripartite Committee recommendations, not rewarding those undermining democracy.

@LansanaDumbuya It's sad that we are putting politics into something like the #MCC. The criteria are clear and under @PresidentBio we have been able to meet them coz of his visionary leadership - civil liberty, political rights, control of corruption, rule of law, freedom of Information, educa

At the High-Level Youth & Digital Compass Breakfast in New York, I emphasized the critical role of youth entrepreneurship and digital trade in driving economic empowerment and peacebuilding. I shared inspiring stories of young innovators like Fatmata and Musa.

This evening, I announced that in line with the decennial census calendar, my government will conduct a nationwide Population and Housing Census from 2nd to 15th December 2025. I urge all our partners and inhabitants of Sierra Leone to support the forthcoming decennial census.

Today, I had the pleasure of receiving Emmanuel Octave Bananeza, the New Country Director of Welthungerhilfe Sierra Leone, for a courtesy visit. We discussed WHH's initiatives aimed at enhancing food security, promoting agricultural development for youth.

*This evening @PresidentBio will address the nation on the Proclamation of the 2025 Population and Housing Census.* *The presidential address is slated for today Monday, 9th September 2024 at 8:00pm on SLBC TV and Radio.* *Don’t miss it!*

‼️More highlights from our new policy brief on Artificial Intelligence for Sustainable Youth Development in Africa‼️ Launching 20 September. Stay tuned. #AIYouthPolicy #YoungPeopleAtTheTable

Regardless of the circumstances, there is never an excuse for a man to raise his hand against a woman. My late mother taught me that a man has no right over a woman. If a man resorts to violence or disrespect, no amount of wealth or apology can rectify the harm done.

Just wrapped up an inspiring meeting with the National and regional presidents of the Bike Riders Association, where we delved into the crucial role of peace building and national cohesion. The conversations highlighted how pivotal our community can be in fostering peace.

Poverty eradication is an achievable goal. At the Ecosoc Youth Forum 2024, with the Kenema District Youth Council Leader where I highlighted how nation's youth are driving progress towards a brighter, equitable future. Together, they inspire and lead efforts for change.

When the Minister of Youth visited the former Beast Master for anointing @FrancisKaifala the Beast Master greeted him warmly, acknowledging his progress. He humorously remarked, "You're on the right track, you didn't spend 40 days and 40 nights sleeping in the Beast Wood!"

This below is my Peace message from Sierra Leone to the Peace Concert organised at the UN headquarters at the conclusion of Sierra Leone's August 2024 Presidency of the UN Security Council.

@PresidentBio and #SierraLeone captured world's attention this August with the outstanding leadership at the UN Security Council. @PresidentBio's bold stance for permanent seat and reforms in the council, garnered praise and admiration. The spotlight showcases true leadership.

80% of the papers in today's cabinet were presented by women. The cabinet today was also nearly gender balanced (46% women ministers), affirming my government's commitment to women's empowerment. The energy reverberating in the room was amplified by the fact that 25% of today's cabinet are below age 40. This is the most diverse and inclusive cabinet ever, and we are poised to drive impactful change for a better Sierra Leone.

Today, I joined the leadership of our great SLPP to bid farewell to Dr. S. U. M. Jah. He dedicated his life to serving humanity as a medical practitioner and in many roles as a public servant at the highest levels of government. Dr. Jah both inspired and touched so many lives. He was a role model in his commitment to Bo School and OBBA. He will be sorely missed but always fondly remembered. My profound condolences go to the Jah family. Thank you for letting us share the virtues, life, and services of Dr. Jah. May Allah forgive his sins and grant his soul eternal rest in peace.