Sierra Leone’s Minister of Youth Affairs, Mohamed Orman Bangura, recently delivered a poignant address underscoring the pivotal role of young people in propelling the nation towards prosperity and away from the shackles of poverty. Speaking at this year’s ECOSOC Youth Forum, themed "Reinforcing the 2030 Agenda and eradicating poverty in times of multiple crises: the effective delivery of sustainable, resilient, and innovative solutions," Minister Bangura articulated Sierra Leone’s strategic endeavors aimed at empowering its youth through education, skills development, and entrepreneurship initiatives.

Bangura elucidated Sierra Leone’s concerted efforts in fostering partnerships and championing African-led solutions to drive sustainable development, thereby positioning the youth as indispensable drivers of the country’s advancement. Drawing inspiration from the revered African icon, Nelson Mandela, Bangura echoed Mandela’s ethos, emphasizing the collective responsibility in overcoming poverty through transformative actions.

Furthermore, Minister Bangura underscored the imperative of well-defined interventions, elaborating on Sierra Leone’s strategic objectives of enhancing youth empowerment via education, skills training, and the cultivation of an entrepreneurial ethos. He accentuated the significance of collaboration and the advocacy for African-driven solutions in addressing the multifaceted challenges confronting the nation.

Minister Bangura’s address not only highlighted the government's commitment to youth empowerment but also underscored the importance of collective action and innovative strategies in fostering sustainable development. By prioritizing the needs and potentials of the youth, Sierra Leone endeavors to pave the way for a brighter, more prosperous future, driven by the dynamism and ingenuity of its young populace.