Thousands of young people across Sierra Leone will soon receive a $300 one-time cash support from the National Youth Commission (NYC) as part of a new effort to boost youth-led businesses and job creation.

The program, led by NYC Commissioner Ahmed Atata Mansaray, will support 8,000 young people aged 18 to 35 who either run or plan to start small household businesses. Each person will get $300 in direct support, adding up to a total of $2.4 million.

To qualify, applicants must have a National ID. The money is expected to be paid out in the first or second week of July, depending on when all paperwork is completed.

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Young people from across the country will benefit, including 1,500 in each of the following areas: Bo, Kenema, Makeni, and Port Loko. More recipients will also be selected in Freetown and other towns.

The NYC is working closely with the Ministry of Youth to make sure the money reaches the right people and that the process is smooth and well-organized. The goal is to help more young people start or grow their own small businesses and create jobs in their communities.

Commissioner Mansaray also said that the Commission is paying attention to making sure girls and young women are fully included. The plan follows the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act passed in 2022, which supports fair opportunities for women in all areas of life.

This new program is said to be part of the government’s wider plan to open up more opportunities for young people and invest in their futures.