Presidential spokesperson Alpha Kanu has addressed ongoing questions about employment and job creation in Sierra Leone, reaffirming the government's commitment to its promise of creating 500,000 jobs over five years.

Kanu stated that more than 70% of Sierra Leoneans are now employed, with the majority engaged in agriculture and farming activities in rural areas rather than in urban office jobs. He explained that the government’s development efforts have focused heavily on improving productivity in these areas, which includes bringing in 410 tractors between 2018 and now to boost food production and support farmers.

The job creation goal, part of the current administration’s manifesto, aims to generate around 75,000 new jobs each year under a broader five-point development agenda.

However, public response to Kanu’s remarks has been divided. While he expressed pride in the government's agricultural initiatives, many citizens remain skeptical. Critics argue that employment remains elusive for a large portion of the population, especially graduates and young people in urban centers. They say the jobs being counted are largely informal or unverified and that the benefits of development are not being felt evenly.

Kanu also compared the situation in Sierra Leone to that of Burkina Faso, where President Ibrahim Traore was praised for importing 300 tractors. He noted that Sierra Leone brought in even more—410—but has received less public appreciation. He urged citizens to acknowledge the government’s efforts rather than dismiss them.

Despite his appeal, many members of the public took to online platforms to express frustration. Some challenged the authenticity of the employment figures and accused the government of misrepresenting the situation. Others demanded transparency and called for real, accessible job opportunities for the nation’s youth.

While the government insists progress is being made, the gap between official statements and public sentiment highlights the growing concern over accountability and visible results.