Freetown, Sierra Leone – 50 brand-new electric vehicles have arrived at the Water Quay Bolloré Terminal in Freetown, marking a significant step forward in the government’s Youth Ride-Hailing Initiative.
Minister of Youth Affairs Ibrahim Sannoh personally inspected and verified the vehicles on Monday as part of preparations for the launch of “Sierra Ride,” an ambitious electric ride-hailing program designed to create sustainable jobs for young Sierra Leoneans.
The initiative, supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), aims to introduce a modern, app-based ride-hailing service similar to Uber, but powered entirely by electric vehicles.
Officials say it will generate employment opportunities, reduce carbon emissions, lower operating costs for drivers, and position Sierra Leone as a leader in green mobility in the region.
Key Objectives of the Sierra Ride Initiative:
– Youth Employment: Providing young people, including marginalized groups, with training and opportunities to become electric vehicle drivers and entrepreneurs.
– Environmental Impact: Promoting cleaner transportation to combat air pollution and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
– Innovation & Technology: Introducing e-payment systems and modern ride-hailing technology.
– Scalability: Plans indicate more vehicles could arrive locally within the next two years as the program expands.
Minister Sannoh emphasized the forward-looking nature of the project, stating that embracing electric vehicles demonstrates Sierra Leone’s commitment to adapting to global technological shifts and building a more sustainable future.
This delivery comes amid broader national efforts to promote electric mobility, including previous initiatives focused on electric three-wheelers (e-kekes) in partnership with UNEP and other stakeholders.
The arrival of these 50 vehicles is expected to boost public confidence in the government’s youth empowerment agenda while contributing to Sierra Leone’s climate goals.
Further details on the rollout, driver application process, and charging infrastructure will be announced by the Ministry of Youth Affairs in the coming weeks.
