By Thaimu T Kamara
In a bold and proactive move to reduce youth unemployment and promote self-reliance, the Government of Sierra Leone, through the Ministry of Youth Affairs, with significant support from the World Bank, has launched a comprehensive youth entrepreneurship training program targeting young people in Bo and Kenema Districts, the productive Social Safety Nets and Youth Employment Project in Bo and Kenema District.
The initiative focuses on equipping youths with practical vocational and business skills in areas such as cake making, soap production, cosmetics manufacturing, and other small-scale but impactful trades. This training is part of a broader strategy to empower young people with the tools necessary to create sustainable livelihoods.
Following the completion of the training, each participating youth will receive a start-up capital package to launch their own businesses, fostering economic independence and contributing to local economic development.
The program is being implemented in collaboration with local and national partners, including
Project 1835 CEDA (Community Empowerment and Development Agency) LAD Local Action for Development, SE-Hub
These partners bring a wealth of experience in youth development, entrepreneurship training, and community empowerment, ensuring the effective delivery of both the training modules and follow-up support.
Speaking at the program launch, a representative from the Ministry of Youth Affairs Mr. Sheku T. Bellay emphasized the government’s commitment to youth empowerment:
This initiative is a cornerstone of our national youth development strategy. We believe that by investing in the skills and creativity of our young people, we are investing in the future of Sierra Leone.
Representatives from the World Bank also expressed their continued support for youth-led development, noting that economic inclusion is essential for long-term stability and growth.
Over the coming weeks, hundreds of youths across Bo and Kenema are expected to complete the training. Post-training, beneficiaries will be supported with business mentoring and monitored to ensure the sustainability of their ventures.
This project reflects a strong partnership between the government, development agencies, and local organizations, all working toward the common goal of creating opportunities for young Sierra Leoneans to thrive.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Monday,25th August 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
