Parliament has officially approved Umar Fuad Bawoh as a board member of the Sierra Leone National Youth Commission (NYC). His appointment, made by President Julius Maada Bio, has been widely welcomed as a recognition of his longstanding contributions to youth development and community service.
Bawoh, a prominent philanthropist and youth advocate, has dedicated years to empowering young people, supporting education, and promoting community-driven initiatives across the country. From Freetown’s eastern and western districts to the provinces, his impact is evident through tangible social and economic projects that have benefited thousands of people.
While many see Bawoh’s appointment as well-deserved, the Sierra Leonean public is now expecting more than just recognition; they want results. His approval by Parliament signals confidence in his leadership, but it also comes at a time when the country faces pressing challenges, especially among its youth.
Unemployment, limited opportunities, and the growing “kush” drug epidemic are pushing many young people to the margins of society. Communities across Sierra Leone are calling for urgent, practical solutions, not just rhetoric.
As a board member of the Youth Commission, Bawoh will be expected to help design and implement policies that provide real opportunities for young people and steer them away from drugs and despair.
Beyond the youth crisis, Sierra Leone continues to grapple with rising incidents of gender-based violence (GBV). The public now looks to leaders like Bawoh to use their influence to promote programs that address these issues head-on—supporting survivors, challenging harmful social norms, and ensuring women and girls can live in safety and dignity.
As part of President Bio’s “Big Five” agenda, there is a renewed national focus on human capital development. Bawoh’s inclusion in the Youth Commission presents a chance to turn that vision into action by investing in education, skills training, and community outreach that benefits both young men and women.
In a call for action, Members of Parliament from both sides of the aisle praised Bawoh’s track record, describing him as a diligent public servant whose work has earned the trust of the President. But while his approval is a milestone, it also represents a moment of reckoning.
The public expects accountability, transparency, and measurable progress, particularly on issues affecting the next generation.
As one of the nation’s emerging public leaders, Umar Fuad Bawoh now carries the responsibility of translating his reputation for community service into meaningful, lasting change.
Sierra Leone’s youth cannot afford to wait, and neither can the women and girls whose safety and futures depend on bold leadership and immediate action.