Representatives from the Ministry of Information and Civic Education have presented the plans for the upcoming Salone Civic Festival to State House officials. The festival, slated for December 12–13, 2024, aims to promote national pride, unity, and civic engagement by bringing government closer to the people and encouraging citizens to actively participate in nation-building.
The meeting commenced with opening remarks from the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Andrew Sanie Kamara, who outlined the festival’s primary goals. He emphasized that the event would serve to introduce the Civic Education Strategy, which centers around six pillars, including “Love Salone, Feed Salone, Clean Salone, Heal Salone, Digitize Salone, and Salone for We All.” P.S. Kamara highlighted the ministry’s focus on fostering public awareness, inspiring civic responsibility, and promoting unity through these pillars. He expressed optimism for the President’s endorsement and budget approval to support this initiative.
Mohamed Jaward Nyallay, Outreach Officer for the Strategic Communications Unit, provided a detailed overview of the festival. He described the Salone Civic Festival as a transformative, two-day event designed to build a direct connection between government ministries and Sierra Leone’s citizens. The festival will feature interactive booths from high-ranking officials, including the President, Vice President, Chief Minister, and First Lady, as well as various ministries, departments, agencies, and private sector exhibitors. “Citizens will have the chance to engage with top leaders in the “Meet Your Government Zone,” and enjoy cultural displays and showcases designed to promote unity, pride, and active citizenship” Mr. Nyallay said.
Dr. Emmanuel Gaima, Secretary to the President, praised the concept of the Civic Festival, highlighting the importance of civic awareness in fostering national unity. Dr. Gaima noted that while he has previously raised concerns regarding event organization, he is optimistic that this year’s festival will be well-coordinated.
“This is a brilliant initiative put together by the Minister and his team. The people of Sierra Leone need it. Civic awareness and engagement are essential,” Dr. Gaima stated. He emphasized the need for clear messaging on pride and unity, alongside sustained public information campaigns. Dr. Gaima also recommended strategies to align ministries with the event’s mission, including setting up designated representatives for consistent collaboration throughout the planning process.
The Ministry of Information and Civic Education is expected to finalize event details in the coming weeks, with plans to establish a coordinated effort involving all relevant government ministries and agencies.
Credit – Ministry of Information and Civic Education