By Kadiatu A Turay.
In a bold move to tackle unemployment and spur economic growth, the Freetown City Council (FCC) has launched an ambitious plan to create 120,000 jobs by 2028. The initiative, unveiled during a press conference at the City Hall on Monday, aims to transform the economic landscape of Freetown through a combination of skill development, infrastructure projects, and support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, speaking at the event, highlighted the urgency of addressing the high unemployment rates in the city, particularly among the youth. “This plan is a comprehensive approach to not only create jobs but to build a resilient and sustainable economy for Freetown,” she said. “We are committed to empowering our citizens with the skills and opportunities they need to thrive.”
The FCC’s plan has garnered support from various stakeholders, including government agencies, international development partners, and the private sector. Representatives from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the World Bank, present at the launch, expressed their commitment to supporting Freetown’s job creation goals.
As part of the launch, Mayor Aki-Sawyerr also announced the establishment of a dedicated task force to oversee the implementation of the plan and ensure its targets are met. The task force will include representatives from the city council, business community, civil society, and youth organizations.
The announcement has been met with optimism from residents and business leaders alike. “This is a game-changer for Freetown,” said Samuel Conteh, a local entrepreneur. “With the right support and resources, we can create a vibrant economy that benefits everyone.”
The Freetown City Council’s job creation plan represents a significant step towards addressing unemployment and fostering sustainable economic development in Sierra Leone’s capital. As the city embarks on this ambitious journey, the hope is that it will pave the way for a prosperous future for all its citizens.
Copyright –Published in print in Expo Times Newspaper on Friday, July 12th, 2024 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
