The National Commission for Social Action (NaCSA) recently unveiled an ambitious employment initiative aimed at empowering young people in Freetown, Sierra Leone. This initiative, part of the Green Public Works project, is set to provide short-term job opportunities for 8,000 youths, thanks to funding from the World Bank and the Sierra Leonean government.

Aligned with the Productive Social Safety Nets and Youth Employment Project (PSSNYE) signed in 2023, this initiative seeks to enhance access to social safety nets and income-generating opportunities for vulnerable households nationwide. Ambassador Ernest Mbaimba Ndomahina, the NaCSA Commissioner, emphasized the project's strategic significance in advancing the government's development agenda. He extended gratitude to the World Bank, implementing partners, and the Sierra Leonean community for their support.

The employment initiative comprises two main components:

1. **Productive Labour-intensive Public Works (LIPWs) & Life Skills Support for Youth:** Targeting youth aged 18 to 35 in both rural and urban areas, this program aims to provide short-term employment opportunities through community-driven projects. Alongside gaining valuable life skills training, participants will engage in various public works projects.

2. **Green Public Works:** Focusing on environmental sustainability, this sub-component aims to enhance green initiatives in Freetown and the Western Area Rural District (WARD). Activities include planting 250,000 trees across 11 catchment areas and supporting youth-led efforts in garbage collection and disposal.

The garbage collection project will unfold in four phases, each spanning four months, totaling one year. Participants will receive wages based on the minimum wage rate.

Ndomahina disclosed that funding from the World Bank and the Sierra Leonean government has already facilitated the employment of 1,479 youths in tree planting and waste management initiatives, in collaboration with the Freetown City Council. Similar endeavors are slated for regional headquarters towns such as Bombali, Bo, Port Loko, and Kenema, presenting sustainable development prospects for young people countrywide.

This project marks a significant stride towards youth empowerment and environmental preservation in Sierra Leone. By offering short-term employment opportunities coupled with valuable skills training, the Green Public Works initiative paves the way for a greener and more prosperous future.

Through this initiative, NaCSA continues to demonstrate its commitment to fostering socio-economic development and environmental stewardship in Sierra Leone, bolstered by collaborative efforts with government entities, international partners, and local communities.