Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, the Chief Minister of Sierra Leone, took center stage in the Central Business District (CBD) of Freetown, engaging with a vibrant crowd consisting mainly of young traders and residents.
This event was organized following appeals from various youth support groups seeking to explore avenues for youth empowerment and discuss the government’s ambitious Big Five agenda.
The gathering, hosted at a venue on the intersection of Lightfoot Boston and Percival Streets, brought together individuals from diverse communities such as Government Wharf, Falcon Bridge, Shore Pit, King Jimmy, Sweizzy Jewellers, Peter’s Brook, Belgium, Kroo Bay, Kroo Town Road, and Malama Thomas Street.
Leading the proceedings, Moses Bona conveyed gratitude to President Dr. Julius Maada Bio for appointing youthful figures like Chief Minister Sengeh to key positions in the government. Bona highlighted the growth and strength of the various support groups within the CBD since their formation in 2012.
Representatives from different communities voiced their appeals for government assistance in several areas. They sought support for skills training, financial aid to bolster local businesses, and initiatives aimed at uplifting the youth in slum areas. The request for fishing boats to engage more young people found a special mention, underscoring the desire to create livelihood opportunities.
Mama Haja Adama, Chairlady of the CBD’s support groups, emphasized the urgency of job creation and scholarships for youth, some of whom were graduates seeking promising avenues for their careers.
Chairman Alhaji Maady Kallon outlined a vision for an ultra-modern business hub within the CBD, a space that would not only accommodate their enterprises but also contribute significantly to government revenue.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh affirmed that his engagement was a direct reflection of his role as a government official. He stressed the importance of electing trustworthy leaders and expressed gratitude for the re-election of President Julius Maada Bio.
“I’m delighted to stand before you today in response to the request conveyed through my office. Our belief is that government is representative of the people, and the trust you’ve placed in this administration prompted a swift response to your call for engagement,” he articulated.
He underscored the significance of peace and how the tranquil atmosphere enabled this gathering. He encouraged the youth to recognize their role as peacemakers, underlining that the responsibility for peace rested in their hands, within their respective communities and the nation.
Chief Minister Sengeh also highlighted the government’s commitment to addressing drug misuse, particularly among the youth. Citing concerning statistics from the Mental Health Hospital in Kissy, he underscored the pressing issue of drug abuse.
“Our nation is grappling with a drug epidemic, evident from the increasing cases reported at the Mental Health Hospital. Young people must become catalysts for change. We possess a progressive spirit, and President Bio firmly believes in the transformative power of our youth,” he assured.
He called upon the young generation to collaborate with President Bio and his dynamic cabinet to accomplish the historic transformation envisioned through the government’s ambitious Big Five agenda.
