By Alfred Koroma
The Government of Sierra Leone, in partnership with the International Trade Centre (ITC), launched the Ready Salone Project on Thursday, 23rd January, to unlock economic opportunities for Sierra Leonean youth and youth-led enterprises in the digital economy.
The project aims to deliver digital upskilling for young people and entrepreneurs and will collaborate with business support organizations, financial institutions, tech hubs, and policymakers to facilitate youth access to jobs and market opportunities.
Welcoming guests at the launch, the Minister of Youth Affairs, Mohamed Orman Bangura, stated that the project is designed to help Sierra Leone diversify its economy and empower its young people. He emphasized that it is a valuable input into people’s lives and aligns with the government’s Medium-Term National Development Plan.
“It is about empowering the youth of Sierra Leone. Ready Salone makes it possible for more young people to use digital technologies to grow their businesses, pursue entrepreneurship, create jobs, and improve social inclusion,” said ITC Executive Director Pamela Coke-Hamilton.
“It is about fueling the creative spirit that drives entrepreneurs and small business leaders to innovate, provide goods and services, and transform communities in the country,” she added.
The $9.3 million program, which will be implemented through 2028, is supported by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and aims to benefit 10,000 youth, including 30% women.
Deputy Country Director of KOICA, Baik Ki-Hyun, emphasized the significance of the project, stating that youth empowerment is critical to the country’s economic development. He assured that KOICA is committed to supporting the project with more than $8 million.
UN Resident Coordinator Seraphine Wakana commended the project, noting its potential to promote competitiveness and inclusive growth.
“The objectives of the Ready Salone Project are laudable as they align well with government policies and priorities outlined in the Medium-Term National Development Plan,” Wakana said.
The event concluded with the signing of the Trade Compact Partnership between KOICA, ITC, and the Sierra Leone Government, following a keynote address by the Chief Minister, David Sengeh.
The Chief Minister expressed gratitude to the partners and highlighted the project’s importance, declaring, “Sierra Leone is ready for the project.”
