Freetown, Sierra Leone – Minister of Youth Affairs, Ibrahim Sannoh, has engaged some of Sierra Leone’s leading entertainers in a high-level roundtable aimed at advancing the nation’s music industry and empowering young people.
The meeting brought together Entertainment Ambassador Kao Denero, Colabo, Kracktwist, Artical Foyoh, and Mohamed B. Bayoh (Eco), who also doubles as the Entertainment Youth Coordinator.
Discussions focused on strategies to take Sierra Leonean music to international platforms, with Minister Sannoh revealing ongoing negotiations with the Managing Director of Trace, one of the world’s top music networks, to secure global airplay for local artists.
“This is not just about music—it’s about branding Sierra Leone to the world through the talent of our young people,” Minister Sannoh said, describing the partnership with Trace as a gateway to broader opportunities for the country’s creative industry.
Artists present welcomed the initiative with enthusiasm. Kao Denero called it a long-awaited breakthrough for international recognition, while Colabo described it as “history in the making,” urging fellow musicians to step up their craft as the industry prepares for global exposure.
The session also spotlighted upcoming youth-focused events, including the Mano River Union Youth Conekt 2025 in October and Sierra Leone’s first-ever Youth Festival scheduled for December.
According to the Minister, the Youth Festival will not only celebrate music, arts, and culture but also raise funds to support young people struggling with drug addiction.
“Entertainment is a tool for healing, empowerment, and nation-building,” Sannoh emphasized, pledging continued collaboration with artists to elevate Sierra Leone’s entertainment sector to international standards.