Freetown, Sierra Leone - President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has urged the youth of Sierra Leone to actively participate in community transformation through positive contributions. This call was made during the opening of the Salone Civic Festival at the Miatta Conference Hall in Freetown. The festival is an initiative by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education aimed at promoting national unity, shared responsibility, and sustainable development.
In his keynote speech, President Bio emphasized civic education as a movement that defines Sierra Leone's identity and aspirations. He noted that this initiative was introduced to address a drift from core values since he took office. Citing former U.S. President John F. Kennedy's words, “Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country,” he challenged young people to excel and become ambassadors of change.
Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, highlighted the event's vision to foster love for Sierra Leone and promote various societal goals under the theme "Sierra Leone Is Bigger Than All of Us." He praised President Bio for establishing Africa’s first Ministry of Civic Education, positioning Sierra Leone as a leader in civic responsibility.
Tourism Minister Nabeela Farida Tunis discussed her ministry’s role in advancing civic education through initiatives like the “Tourism for All Campaign.” She noted its success in uniting citizens across regions while fostering respect for cultural heritage.
Dr. Stefanie Brinkel from Germany’s Konrad Adenauer Foundation commended the creation of platforms promoting civic awareness. She stressed that civic education is crucial for democracy and reaffirmed her organization’s commitment to leadership and social responsibility in Sierra Leone.
The launch of the Salone Civic Festival marks a pivotal moment in redefining national identity and values in Sierra Leone. By encouraging youth leadership and cross-sector partnerships, it highlights collective responsibility towards building a united nation. President Bio's call serves as an invitation for citizens to embrace civic education as essential for progress.
President Bio also announced an increase in subvention to support journalists through the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ).
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