By Aminata Abu Bakarr Kamara
In the narrative of national development, the role of youths is indispensable. Yet, a concerning trend has emerged: a growing number of young people exhibit a lackadaisical attitude towards community development and national progress. This indifference is especially evident when it comes to addressing pressing local issues, where they often shy away from responsibility, instead placing the burden on government bodies and stakeholders.
One glaring example of this is the reluctance of youths to engage in basic community upkeep, particularly during the rainy season. In numerous communities, tasks such as clearing bushy areas, maintaining road paths, and cleaning public spaces fall to the wayside, while the youths, who are more than capable of handling these responsibilities, sit back and criticize the government for not doing enough. This passive approach not only hampers community development but also perpetuates a cycle of dependency and inaction.
The issue extends beyond neglect. Some youths have taken their disregard for communal responsibility to an alarming level by engaging in the theft of government property. This is not just an act of defiance but a direct assault on the very infrastructure meant to benefit them.
As highlighted by senior writer Sheku Putka Kamara in his article titled “Hill Side Bypass Road,” the situation is dire. Despite reports suggesting the theft of road rails, two anonymous sources have indicated that the rails were never fixed in the first place. However, Kamara points out that the real issue lies in the fact that such thefts and acts of vandalism have become disturbingly common in various communities. This observation underscores the broader challenge of civic responsibility, particularly among the youth.
In my hometown of Lungi, I have witnessed firsthand how government properties are looted with reckless abandon. Such acts raise a critical question: who suffers the most from these vices? The answer is clear—the community itself. When government resources are stolen or destroyed, it is the local population that bears the brunt of the consequences. Roads remain unsafe, public spaces deteriorate, and essential services become scarce, all of which impede progress and exacerbate the hardships faced by ordinary citizens.
Youth involvement in national development should not be limited to vocal criticism or waiting for external intervention. It requires active participation, initiative, and a sense of ownership over one’s community. Instead of merely pointing fingers, young people must ask themselves what they have done to contribute positively to their surroundings. The power to effect change lies within the community, and it begins with the actions of its youngest members.
It is high time that our youths step up and take responsibility for the future they will inherit. This involves not just participating in community activities but also safeguarding public property and resources. By doing so, they can set an example for others and help to build a nation that is resilient, self-sufficient, and united in its pursuit of progress.
The path to national development is not a solitary one; it is a collective journey that requires the active involvement of every citizen. For our youths, this means moving beyond criticism and embracing the role of community leaders, innovators, and protectors of our shared resources. Only then can we hope to achieve the sustainable development that our nation so desperately needs.
