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The Government of Sierra Leone has officially launched its nationwide Civic Engagement Series in Kono District through the Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MoICE), reaffirming its commitment to promoting informed citizen participation and bringing governance closer to the people.
The Civic Day event, held in Koidu City on Monday, brought together community leaders, government officials, students, and other stakeholders to discuss national and district development priorities.
Welcoming participants, Paramount Chief Emmanuel T. Foyah of Soa Chiefdom described Kono as a united and resilient district determined to reshape its future.
He urged residents to reduce their reliance on diamond mining and invest more in agriculture, noting that the district’s fertile land offers sustainable opportunities beyond mineral resources. He also called on citizens to remain law-abiding and to engage constructively with government programmes.
Chairman of the Kono District Council, Augustine Sheku, encouraged citizens to promote unity, civic responsibility, and human capital development as foundations for sustainable growth.
He commended the resilience of the people of Kono and highlighted national reforms under President Julius Maada Bio, particularly the government’s Big Five Game Changers agenda, which prioritises food security, youth employment, economic diversification, infrastructure development, and human capital development.
Speaking on behalf of the Ministry, Permanent Secretary Andrew Kamara said the Civic Engagement Series reflects government’s commitment to transparency, inclusive governance, and active citizen participation.
He explained that MoICE serves as a bridge between government and citizens by ensuring that public information reaches communities and that citizens’ concerns are communicated back to the government.
The programme also featured contributions from the Senior District Officer and the Deputy Minister of Agriculture. A student debate competition formed part of the activities, aimed at encouraging young people to participate in civic discourse and national development conversations.
The first day’s activities concluded with the distribution of cash support, school materials, and census materials to beneficiaries.
The Civic Engagement Series will continue on Feb. 24, 2026, with the Minister of Information and Civic Education, Hon. Chernor A. Bah, expected to engage senior government officials, Members of Parliament, heads of parastatals, and indigenes of Kono District on key national and district development issues.
The nationwide initiative forms part of government’s broader effort to strengthen civic education, enhance transparency, and deepen citizen engagement across Sierra Leone.
