By: Aminata Sesay
Minister of Youth Affairs, Ibrahim Sannoh, has called for a transformative shift in the mindset of Sierra Leone’s youth, emphasizing that this change is essential for the country’s long-term development. Speaking during an interview on AYV’s Wake Up Sierra Leone program, Sannoh highlighted that instilling a positive mindset in young people is key to unlocking their full potential and contributing to national progress.
“Since I took office, I’ve realized that one critical thing we need as young people is a mindset transformation shifting our thoughts to focus on personal growth and contributing to a better Sierra Leone,” the minister stated.
As one of the youngest ministers in the current government, Sannoh believes that, despite Sierra Leone’s economic challenges, it is crucial for young people to adopt an attitude centered on innovation, productivity, and civic responsibility. He emphasized that youth are not only the backbone of the country’s future but also the drivers of change, and without the right mindset, opportunities for growth can be easily missed.
Sannoh’s comments come at a time when youth unemployment continues to be a significant issue in Sierra Leone. Many young people struggle to find employment and access skills training, leading to frustration and a sense of disengagement. However, the minister is adamant that before external conditions can improve, young people must first change their perception of themselves.
“We cannot wait for perfect conditions,” he stressed. “We must start by reframing how we view ourselves not as victims of circumstance, but as agents of change.”
Under his leadership, the Ministry of Youth Affairs has been implementing several initiatives aimed at empowering young people, including programs for skills development, entrepreneurship support, and community service. These efforts, according to Sannoh, are not only about creating opportunities but also about instilling a sense of purpose, self-reliance, and national pride among Sierra Leone’s youth.
The minister’s proactive approach and communication style have been widely praised, particularly given his own youth, which makes him more relatable to the demographic he serves. However, many experts note that this mindset shift must be supported by concrete policies and long-term support systems.
During the interview, Sannoh also called on other government institutions, private sector players, and civil society organizations to collaborate in reshaping youth engagement in Sierra Leone. “Changing mindsets is not the job of one ministry. It is a national duty,” he said.
He concluded by encouraging Sierra Leonean youth to take ownership of their future: “Our energy, creativity, and courage can be the driving force that propels Sierra Leone forward. But it all begins with how we think.”
Sannoh’s call for a mindset shift aligns with a broader vision of national transformation, where young people are not simply recipients of development but active drivers of change. As Sierra Leone looks toward the future, the role of its youth and how they view themselves within the national landscape will play a pivotal role in shaping the country’s path forward.