Minister Sannoh Connects with Black Street Youth in Freetown

On the second day of the nationwide Youth Engagement Drive, the Minister of Youth Affairs, Hon. Ibrahim Sannoh, visited Black Street in central Freetown to engage with a group of marginalised young people who are often overlooked in development initiatives but possess untapped potential.

In a powerful display of leadership and empathy, Minister Sannoh sat among the youth, listening to their experiences of hardship, resilience, and survival. Many spoke of systemic neglect, unemployment, and health challenges, while others expressed a desire for skills training, employment, and acceptance within society.

Addressing the gathering, the Minister delivered a strong message of encouragement: “You are part of Sierra Leone’s future, and we are committed to walking with you every step of the way. Your past does not define your tomorrow.”

He called on the youth to shun drugs, embrace self-discipline, and believe in their capacity to transform their lives and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s progress.

In a concrete show of support, Minister Sannoh pledged immediate medical assistance for five members of the group facing urgent health conditions. He assured them that the Ministry would coordinate with relevant health institutions to provide access to care as part of the government’s broader youth welfare agenda.

The visit reinforces the Ministry’s commitment to an inclusive approach to youth empowerment—one that reaches beyond the formal sector to engage all categories of young people, including those in vulnerable and underserved communities.

The Youth Engagement Drive continues nationwide, delivering messages of hope, support, and opportunity to young people from every background.

Koroma Mabinty

SLENA Correspondent

📧 koromamabinty962@gmail.com | 📞 ‪+232 78 078417‬