Sierra Leone Signs Statement of Intent to Join Commonwealth Creative Economy Partnership
Salamatu Y. Kamara Sierra Leone has taken steps towards becoming a founding champion of the proposed Commonwealth Creative Economy Partnership following the signing of a Statement of Intent between the Government of Sierra Leone and the Akuna Group.
Chief Minister David Moinina Sengeh disclosed the development in a statement, noting that President Julius Maada Bio had given him the support to sign the document on behalf of the Government.
The proposed partnership seeks to connect human-capital development, creative skills, employment, enterprise and opportunities between Africa and the Caribbean through collaboration among Commonwealth countries.
According to Sengeh, the initiative will build on the existing Akuna Pod in Freetown and Sierra Leone’s national ambitions in youth empowerment, digital transformation and cultural development. The proposed activities will operate under Sierra Leonean leadership and in accordance with national laws.
The partnership is expected to focus on four key areas: learning and mentorship, the Freetown Akuna Pod, opportunities and markets, and creator commerce.
The initiative is intended to explore ways of strengthening the country’s creative economy by expanding access to skills development, mentorship, employment opportunities and markets for young people and creative entrepreneurs.
Sengeh also acknowledged Idris for his continued efforts to attract partners, investments and opportunities to Sierra Leone, expressing the Government’s commitment to working alongside him in advancing the initiative.
The proposed partnership forms part of broader efforts to create opportunities for young people and strengthen Sierra Leone’s position in the growing creative economy.
“Idris continues to bring partners, investments and opportunities to Sierra Leone and we are honored to walk beside him on this journey,” he stated.
The Commonwealth Creative Economy Partnership is a voluntary initiative aimed at linking creative talents across the Commonwealth, particularly between Africa and the Caribbean, to drive jobs, skills, and enterprise for young people.
If finalized, Sierra Leone’s role as a founding champion would position Freetown as a regional hub for creative skills, digital innovation and youth enterprise.