By John K. Marah
The Government of Sierra Leone, under the leadership of President Julius Maada Bio and spearheaded by Youth Minister Orman Bangura, has launched an ambitious $18 million initiative to empower the nation’s youth through job creation and agricultural development.
The program aims to provide direct financial support to 8,000 young people annually, offering $100 per month to each participant. This project is part of a broader strategy to tackle unemployment and drive socio-economic growth in Sierra Leone.
Minister Bangura emphasized that the initiative encourages young people to see agriculture as a lucrative career option, with the potential to turn their efforts into thriving businesses. “Agriculture is not just a means of survival; it is a path to becoming billionaires,” the Minister stated during the unveiling.
The project will take the form of young participants will receive one-year paid training opportunities on large farms, gaining hands-on experience under the guidance of established agricultural entrepreneurs.
Partnerships with private farms will ensure that youth gain valuable practical skills while contributing to the productivity of the agricultural sector.
Beneficiaries will earn over 2 million Leones annually, fostering self-reliance and creating a skilled workforce ready to contribute to the nation’s development.
Minister Bangura reassured citizens that the program is inclusive, welcoming individuals regardless of their educational background. “You don’t need a formal degree to join. This initiative is for everyone who is ready to build Sierra Leone,” he affirmed.
The Ministry of Youth Affairs has urged citizens to stay informed about application procedures via social media platforms such as Facebook and TikTok. Beneficiaries of previous government initiatives praised the leadership, citing improved livelihoods and the ability to support their families.
One participant shared her experience: “Thanks to this program, I can now support my family and send my children to school. It has transformed my life.”
This empowerment program aligns with the government’s “Fix Sierra Leone” agenda, targeting sustainable development through skill-building, job creation, and agricultural innovation.
With this $18 million investment, the Ministry of Youth Affairs, led by Orman Bangura, is laying the groundwork for a brighter future, where the youth are at the forefront of economic transformation.
