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Sierra Leone’s Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, recently participated in the Global Citizen Now event in New York, joining over 400 leaders from around the world to forge partnerships aimed at addressing urgent global challenges.
As a distinguished Co-Chair of the event, Dr. Sengeh highlighted the importance of collaboration for driving meaningful impact, particularly in the realms of education, renewable energy, and technological advancement.
Accompanied by a delegation of Sierra Leoneans, including diplomats and business leaders from various sectors, Dr. Sengeh represented the nation’s commitment to strengthening its international relationships. During a panel discussion, he shared insights on Education and Radical Inclusion, advocating for inclusive educational practices that widen access for all children.
Among the key partnerships explored was a collaboration with Octopus Energy, a UK-based firm working with a renowned actor, Idris Elba to implement renewable energy solutions in Sierra Leone. The company announced that wind, solar, and battery energy systems would soon be deployed in the country, with turbines already en route. “As a Government, we will continue to work with the private sector and investors to deliver services for our people,” assured Dr. Sengeh.
Another significant partnership was established with Imagine Worldwide, an organization that has been active in Sierra Leone since 2022, deploying solar power, batteries, and tablets, along with teacher training, across 200 schools. They aimed to expand their reach to 450 schools by the end of the year and 750 by June 2026, with the ultimate goal of serving all 5,500 primary schools in the nation. “These offline digital solutions will take a child from no literacy and numeracy to competency,” Dr. Sengeh stated, emphasizing the exciting prospects for educational development in Sierra Leone.
Dr. Sengeh also took the opportunity to connect with music legend Wyclef Jean, discussing the intersection of arts, technology, and education. The two expressed a shared vision of using these mediums as tools for national development. “The freestyle we started must be completed in a studio in Freetown, Sierra Leone,” Dr. Sengeh joked, reflecting on their collaborative spirit.
Additionally, a momentous announcement was made regarding the launch of a FIFA Education Fund in partnership with Global Citizen, set to debut at the next World Cup in the Americas. Dr. Sengeh referenced Sierra Leone’s ongoing advocacy for education financing at the UN, led by President Bio. “One way or the other, through Leone Stars or State House, Sierra Leone will be at the World Cup final,” he affirmed, hinting at the country’s plans to engage with the global sporting event.
