Delivering a powerful call to action, the Minister of Youth Affairs, Ibrahim Sannoh, reaffirmed the Government’s unwavering commitment to youth empowerment through digital innovation during the launch of KOICA’s transformative initiative, “Ready Salone: Realizing Empowerment Fund and Accelerating Digital for Youth.”
Addressing the gathering, the Minister addressed a packed room of young beneficiaries and digital trainers, encouraging Sierra Leone’s youth to seize the opportunities provided by technology to shape their future and drive national development.
“We are no longer the future. We are the present,” Ibrahim Sannoh declared emphatically. “Let us begin to plan for ourselves because those before us failed to plan for us.”
The Youth Affairs Minister urged participants to move beyond using social media for entertainment, instead leveraging digital platforms for education, entrepreneurship and personal branding. “Social media is more than just likes and trends. It is a powerful tool for progress. Use it wisely to build, brand and better yourselves,” he advised.
Highlighting the importance of digital marketing in today’s economy, Ibrahim Sannoh emphasized that mastering such skills is key to achieving financial independence in an increasingly digital world. He encouraged young people to harness e-commerce and other digital tools to tap into global markets and create sustainable livelihoods.
The Ready Salone initiative, led by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), aims to build a resilient digital ecosystem in Sierra Leone. The program offers comprehensive training in e-commerce and includes a “training of trainers” model designed to ensure the widespread transfer of skills across communities.
Ibrahim Sannoh lauded KOICA’s ongoing support for youth development in Sierra Leone, noting that while external support is crucial, the most significant change depends on the will and determination of the youth themselves.
“The tools are in your hands. The time is now,” he told the audience. “Let this training mark the beginning of a journey toward self-reliance and innovation.”
The event marked not just the formal launch of Ready Salone, but a renewed commitment to digital transformation and inclusive development.
Ibrahim Sannoh’s address set a visionary tone, reinforcing his growing reputation as a leading advocate for youth empowerment and digital progress in Sierra Leone.
As the country navigates the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century, initiatives like Ready Salone are proving vital in equipping the next generation with the skills and confidence to take charge of their future digitally, creatively and fearlessly.