Sierra Leone’s Youth Minister Becomes Member of Commonwealth Youth Ministers Task Force

Sierra Leone’s Minister of Youth Affairs, Mr. Mohamed Orman Bangura, has been appointed into the Commonwealth Youth Ministers Task Force (CYMTF).

This significant appointment took place on 15th September 2023, during the concluding session of the 10th Commonwealth Youth Ministers Meeting (10CYMM) held in London. Throughout the assembly, attendees deliberated on the year’s undertakings and strategically planned the future pathway.

An enthralling performance was presented by a group from Samoa, the upcoming host for the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM2024). Through their vibrant dance-drama and video displays, they unveiled the allure, culinary delights, and traditions of Samoa, portraying it as “the place where the Pacific meets Paradise.”

With Minister Bangura’s inclusion in the CYMTF, Sierra Leone ascends to a prominent position of accountability within the esteemed circle of the 56-member Commonwealth community.

The CYMTF, consisting of 11 distinguished members, holds the pivotal role of advising the Commonwealth Youth Ministers and the Commonwealth Secretariat. Their responsibilities span offering strategic counsel on pivotal youth-oriented projects and related matters to the Youth Ministers and the Board of Governors.

Moreover, the CYMTF is entrusted with overseeing developments consistent with resolutions from both CYMMs and CHOGMs, and ensuring commitment adherence from associated stakeholders and institutions. One of its essential duties involves forging strategic alliances and spearheading resource allocation. Furthermore, in alignment with the Commonwealth Charter and Strategic Plan, the Task Force actively champions youth-centric initiatives.

A stipulation from the CYMTF mandates that every member nation of the Commonwealth Youth Programme designates a National Focal Point for Youth Affairs. This selected entity would be tasked with periodic reporting and facilitating communication among task force members and the Secretariat.

Reacting to his nomination, Mr. Bangura expressed his appreciation for the distinction conferred on Sierra Leone. He underscored his eagerness to join forces with his CYMTF counterparts in advancing positive youth-driven transformations across the entire Commonwealth consortium.