On November 13, 2023, Sierra Leone’s government, through the Vice President’s office, proudly inaugurated the second edition of the 2023 National Youth Employment and Entrepreneurship Fair at the Freetown International Conference Centre in Aberdeen.

The eagerly awaited event aimed to empower and inspire youth toward building a prosperous and self-reliant future. Anchored by this year’s theme, “Fostering Employment, Entrepreneurship, and Growth for Future-Ready Youth Development,” the occasion was poised for a dynamic and impactful gathering.

The opening ceremony began at 12 noon with a solemn prayer, symbolizing collective hope for the fair’s success. Minister of State, Manty Tarawalli, then took the stage to deliver the opening speech. Her address emphasized the National Youth Employment and Entrepreneurship Fair’s crucial role as a platform for youth to learn, gain exposure, and assess skills for personal development and self-employment.

Minister Manty emphasized the pivotal role of the fair in the government’s broader strategy to address youth unemployment. She announced the ambitious goal of providing 500,000 jobs for the nation’s youth. This initiative, she explained, encompassed a diverse range of opportunities, including both formal and informal employment, waged work, and self-employment. The comprehensive approach aimed to cater to the varied skills and aspirations of the youth population.

Importantly, Minister Manty emphasized that these 500,000 jobs were strategically crafted to uplift citizens from poverty. The Sierra Leonean government views employment and entrepreneurship as potent instruments to propel economic growth while nurturing individual prosperity. Consequently, the fair acts as a channel for the government’s dedication to providing youth with the skills and opportunities essential for sustainable development.

As the National Youth Employment and Entrepreneurship Fair unfolds, it stands as a testament to Sierra Leone’s dedication to nurturing a generation of capable, resourceful, and self-reliant individuals.

The event promises to be a catalyst for positive change, creating a ripple effect that extends beyond the fairgrounds and into the very fabric of the nation’s future.