By Josephine Sesay

Sierra Leone may be one of the smallest countries in Africa, but the weight of its economic hardship today feels anything but small. Across Freetown, Bo, Kenema, and the rural heartlands, the rising cost of living has become the single most unifying struggle for millions of citizens, as prices soar and wages stagnate, many are asking the same question

In recent years, Sierra Leoneans have been grappling with relentless increases in the cost of food, transportation, housing, and basic commodities, the Leone’s continued depreciation against foreign currencies has only worsened the situation, weakening household incomes and eroding purchasing power, the salaries remain among the lowest in the region, the price of rice, fuel, and everyday necessities continues to climb beyond the reach of ordinary families.

For many, survival has become a daily calculation a painful balancing act between feeding children, paying rent, and keeping the lights on.

The nation’s economic structure remains fragile. Mining still dominates the economy but generates few sustainable jobs, agriculture employs the majority, yet productivity is low and vulnerable to climate shocks, youth unemployment remains alarmingly high, leaving many young people without opportunities, direction, or hope.

Yet, Sierra Leone’s future hangs delicately between challenge and possibility, the nation has real potential: fertile land, abundant natural resources, a young and energetic population, and a strategic coastline, economic analysts argue that with meaningful investments in education, agriculture, infrastructure, and job creation, Sierra Leone could stabilise and even thrive.

But the path forward demands discipline, vision, and decisive leadership, without bold reforms to curb inflation, strengthen local industries, improve governance, and expand employment opportunities, the country risks sinking deeper into economic distress, a worsening cost-of-living crisis combined with rising youth frustration is a dangerous recipe for social instability.

The question now is not whether Sierra Leone can rise, but whether it will, will the country seize this moment and choose the difficult path of reform over the familiar road of stagnation?

Sierra Leone stands at a crossroads. Its size does not define its destiny its decisions do. If leaders prioritise transparency, economic diversification, and equitable development, the nation can build a future where citizens thrive, not merely survive, But ignoring the warning signs rising poverty, unemployment, and unsustainable living costs could leave future generations facing an even harsher reality.

This is a pivotal moment. Sierra Leone’s future depends on bold choices made today, not promises deferred until tomorrow.

Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Wednesday, 3th December 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)