Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Youth Affairs, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), has launched an initiative to support young people in coastal districts. The project will see the construction of 50 local fishing boats and provide related fishing accessories to benefit 1,000 young people, including women, across seven districts.

“This initiative aligns with President Bio’s commitment to job creation under Cluster 3 of the Big Five Game Changers program, which aims to address youth unemployment,” said Mohamed Orman Bangura, Minister of Youth Affairs.

The government of Sierra Leone has provided Le 1,821,158.30 ( leone ) for the construction of the boats and equipment. The UNDP, through a counterpart funding initiative, has contributed Le 4,619,840.00 ( leone ) for the procurement of 50 outboard engines.

The Ministry reports that advance and progress payments totaling 70% have already been distributed to contractors to ensure project progress. The construction of the fishing boats and procurement of accessories are expected to be completed soon.

This project is a positive step towards empowering young people in Sierra Leone’s coastal communities by providing them with the tools and resources needed to pursue careers in fishing.