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In a vibrant display of innovation, creativity and youthful ambition, STEM Fest Africa 2026 transformed the Freetown Innovation Lab into a hub of ideas and opportunity, highlighting Sierra Leone’s growing commitment to a technology-driven future.
Held at Kortright Field, Fourah Bay College, the landmark event attracted more than 1,000 participants, including students, educators, policymakers, private sector leaders and international partners. Organised by Freetown Innovation Lab, the festival has rapidly become one of the country’s leading platforms for advancing Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
Innovation as a National Priority
Delivering a keynote address, Sierra Leone’s Minister of Planning and Economic Development stressed that the country’s future prosperity depends on sustained investment in innovation and STEM education.
“A nation that equips its children with STEM skills today is laying the foundation for economic sovereignty tomorrow,” the Minister stated, reaffirming government commitment to building a tech-enabled economy.
Technology Meets Culture
Representatives of the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs highlighted the importance of digital tools such as augmented reality and virtual reality in preserving Sierra Leone’s cultural heritage while creating new economic opportunities.
Officials also unveiled plans for a proposed Culture and Creative Village, aimed at encouraging innovators to combine technology and culture in transformative ways.
Orange Sierra Leone Backs Youth Empowerment
As principal sponsor of the event, Orange Sierra Leone demonstrated its continued support for youth development and digital inclusion.
Chief Executive Officer Aicha Touré described STEM as “a catalyst for sustainable development,” revealing that more than 6,000 young people have already benefited from the company’s digital training programmes.
International Support for Local Talent
In a keynote speech, Patrick McManus, Ambassador of Ireland, drew comparisons between Ireland’s transformation into a global technology hub and Sierra Leone’s emerging potential.
He encouraged young people to see themselves as creators of the future rather than passive beneficiaries, while emphasising the importance of inclusion, particularly for girls, in driving national progress.
Showcasing Young Innovators
Beyond the speeches, the festival featured student-led exhibitions and demonstrations in robotics, artificial intelligence, digital health, agriculture, recycling, drones and mobile technology.
Mentorship sessions and technology career corners also gave participants the opportunity to engage directly with decision-makers and industry leaders, offering valuable guidance that could shape future careers.
More Than a Festival
STEM Fest Africa 2026 was more than a gathering—it was a clear statement that Sierra Leone’s young people are ready to lead, partnerships are expanding, and innovation has become essential to national development.
As the event concluded, one message resonated strongly: the future is already being built, and Sierra Leone’s young innovators are helping lead the way.
