In a groundbreaking move toward fostering national unity and youth inclusion, Ibrahim Sannoh, the Minister of Youth Affairs, recently held an unprecedented meeting with executive members of the APC Young Congress, the youth wing of Sierra Leone’s main opposition party. This marks the first time a sitting Youth Minister under the current SLPP-led administration has formally engaged with the APC’s youth leadership, signaling a new chapter in bipartisan youth collaboration.
The discussion, held at the Ministry of Youth Affairs, focused on creating space for mutual cooperation, breaking political barriers, and ensuring that youth development becomes a shared national agenda rather than a partisan one. Minister Sannoh underscored the inclusive mandate of his Ministry, stating, “The Ministry of Youth Affairs does not belong to any political party; it belongs to all young people across Sierra Leone.” He encouraged the APC Young Congress to freely invite the Ministry to their programs, and pledged full support and participation in youth-centered initiatives, regardless of political affiliation. “Every political party’s youth wing deserves a seat at the table,” he emphasized, reiterating that “This Ministry belongs to the youths of Sierra Leone.” Sannoh further affirmed his commitment to inclusive youth engagement, assuring that his office will continue to actively involve all political youth groups in national youth programs and development initiatives.
Ansu Bernard, President of the APC Young Congress, responded with gratitude and optimism, describing the Minister’s outreach as a “genuine gesture of unity” and a “much-needed call to national purpose.” He noted that such engagement could serve as a turning point in bridging political divides among the youths. Bernard expressed hope that this was not merely a meeting, but “the beginning of something real and impactful,” stressing that “When the heart is sincere and the mind is honest, only then can development reach all of us as young people.”
This historic dialogue has been widely welcomed by observers and youth stakeholders as a refreshing display of political maturity and visionary leadership. In a country where political divisions often run deep, the meeting is seen as a rare, yet powerful step to place the interests of young people above party lines. It also sends a clear message that youth unity is central to national progress and that inclusive dialogue, mutual respect, and collaboration are the tools to shape a stronger Sierra Leone. Analysts suggest that this engagement could lay the foundation for long-term partnerships between the Ministry of Youth Affairs and various youth wings, ensuring that young people across all political affiliations are empowered, heard, and involved in the country’s development. As the nation looks ahead, the meeting stands as a hopeful symbol of what is possible when youth leaders transcend political rivalry and commit to a shared vision for peace, development, and progress.