The Environmental Protection Agency of Sierra Leone (EPA-SL), on 28th November 2024, awarded prizes to the three finalists of the Green Solution Youth Innovation Challenge.

The award ceremony, held at the Family Kingdom Hall, celebrated youth-led innovations aimed at promoting sustainable development and addressing environmental challenges.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Abu-Bakar S. Massaquoi, Executive Chairman of EPA-SL, welcomed attendees to the final stage of the challenge. He highlighted the extensive processes and engagements that led to the selection of the three winners.

“There has been significant engagement with these innovators to reach the conclusion of this Green Solution Youth Innovation Challenge,” Dr. Massaquoi stated.

He expressed gratitude to all contributors to the initiative and emphasized the importance of empowering young innovators.

He advised the winners: “You innovators are leaders, and you will help us shape the future of our country by providing solutions to pressing problems and creating jobs for the youth.” Dr. Massaquoi also urged partners to continue supporting the EPA-SL in its efforts.

Representing Fourah Bay College (FBC), Dr. Michael Conteh stressed the importance of addressing climate change challenges for sustainable development. “Changing the narrative on climate change is our collective responsibility,” he remarked.

UNDP Team Lead, Madam Tanzila Watta Sankoh, commended all participants, noting that the initiative celebrates not only the three winners but also all youth innovators working to address climate change.

“Change is possible, and we can achieve it through creative innovation,” she said. Madam Sankoh encouraged the winners to use their resources wisely to enhance their projects and contribute to sustainable development.

Delivering the keynote address, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Jiwoh Emmanuel Abdulai, expressed pride in the innovative solutions presented by the youth. He highlighted the significance of using challenges as opportunities to create meaningful impact.

“I am proud to celebrate these three innovators and all those who were shortlisted. Your ideas offer hope, and this award should serve as a foundation to scale up your innovations, which not only address daily challenges but also create jobs,” the Minister said.

He concluded by urging all innovators to maintain a positive mindset and thanked partners, particularly UNDP, for their contributions to the program’s success. “Let us shape a brighter future for Mama Salone,” he added.

The three winners were:

•Peter George, recognized for his solar-powered backpack innovation.

•Kabba Fofanah, for his Eco-Plastic Recyclers project.

•Mariama Gendemeh, founder of Fresh Veggies Agro-Com Ltd.

The initiative reflects Sierra Leone’s commitment to empowering young innovators and fostering sustainable development through creative solutions to environmental challenges.