The Ministry of Youth Affairs (MOYA) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at expanding opportunities for young people in Sierra Leone.
The agreement, signed in Freetown, seeks to promote skills development, entrepreneurship, and access to sustainable employment for youth across the country. It also places emphasis on youth leadership, civic engagement, and inclusion in national development processes.
Minister of Youth Affairs, Ibrahim Sannoh, described the partnership as a significant step in placing young people at the center of Sierra Leone’s transformation agenda. He said the MoU is a “call to action” that will equip the country’s youthful population with the tools and knowledge needed to contribute to growth.
“This partnership speaks to the vision of the Ministry in ensuring that no young person is left behind. By investing in skills, innovation, and entrepreneurship, we are not only securing the future of our young people but also safeguarding the future of Sierra Leone,” Sannoh said.
According to officials, the collaboration will align existing youth programs with international standards and expand their reach nationwide. Both MOYA and UNDP emphasized that the initiative supports Sierra Leone’s commitments to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in advancing inclusive growth and reducing inequality.
The Ministry of Youth Affairs said it will continue to build partnerships with development agencies to strengthen youth empowerment initiatives and position young people as key drivers of national progress.
