By Abass Mahmoud Sillah Jr
The Commissioner of the National Youth Commission, Joseph Maada Lahai, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to youth empowerment, transparency, and inclusive development during a high-level engagement with youth leaders, development partners, and institutional stakeholders. Delivering his keynote statement, Commissioner Lahai welcomed participants to what he described as a “timely and transformative engagement” aimed at strengthening collaboration between young people and national institutions. “This gathering is not only a moment of reflection but also an opportunity to lay the foundation for a stronger, more productive partnership between the youth of Sierra Leone and key institutions,” he said.
The engagement brought together representatives from youth organizations, civil society groups, government agencies, and development partners, all united by a shared goal of advancing youth participation in national development. Commissioner Lahai outlined five key objectives guiding the engagement, including promoting active youth participation in governance and development processes, presenting the Commission’s Strategic Plan (2025–2030), showcasing achievements recorded so far, strengthening collaboration among stakeholders, and reinforcing government support for youth-focused initiatives.
He emphasized that the Commission’s five-year strategic plan provides a clear roadmap for empowering young people through skills development, employment opportunities, and civic engagement. In a passionate address, Lahai described his role not as one of authority, but of service. “I stand before you not as a figure of authority, but as a servant of the young people of this country,” he stated. “It is both a privilege and a responsibility to serve in an institution dedicated to advancing the aspirations of our youth.” He reiterated that the Commission remains committed to accountability and transparency, noting that youth empowerment must go beyond rhetoric.
“Youth empowerment is not a token gesture—it is a deliberate and sustained action embedded in national development priorities,” he stressed. The Commissioner called on young people and stakeholders to actively engage with the Commission, challenge its policies, and contribute ideas that reflect the realities and aspirations of Sierra Leone’s youth. He also encouraged stronger collaboration between government institutions, the private sector, and development agencies to expand opportunities for young people. “Together, let us leverage existing programmes and create new pathways for youth development.
Young people are not just participants—they are leaders and drivers of national progress,” Lahai added. Closing his remarks on a hopeful note, the Commissioner underscored the importance of optimism and collective responsibility in nation-building. “Without hope, there is nothing. Today, I bring you hope—a renewed commitment that the future of this country lies in the hands of its young people,” he said. The engagement is expected to continue with interactive sessions, providing a platform for youth representatives to raise concerns, ask questions, and propose solutions aimed at shaping policies and programmes that directly impact their lives.
