Veteran diplomat Dr Philip D. Kargbo has officially assumed office as Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Youth Affairs, succeeding the late Morrison Benjamin Gboyor, who died while serving in the position.

Dr Kargbo brings more than three decades of civil service experience to the ministry. His career began at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, where he served as a diplomat at Sierra Leone’s Embassy in Beijing, China.

He later served in the Office of the President and the Ministry of Health and Sanitation, where he rose to the position of Permanent Secretary.

Academically, Dr Kargbo holds a PhD in Diplomacy and International Affairs and is currently pursuing another doctorate in International Law and Treaty Law.

At the Youth Ministry, his responsibilities will focus on key areas including youth employment, skills development and increased youth participation in governance.

Dr Kargbo is expected to strengthen coordination among government programmes, expand partnerships with development organisations and help ensure that government initiatives and commitments to young people translate into tangible opportunities.

His appointment comes at a critical time as Sierra Leone continues to prioritise youth empowerment, employment and skills development as part of its national development agenda.