By Mohamed J. Kargbo
The Environment Protection Agency of Sierra Leone (EPA-SL), in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and partners, has awarded Le285 million each to three winners of the Youth-Led Innovation Challenge.
The winners—Peter George, CEO of Ideal Innovative; Kabba Fofanah, CEO of Eco Plastic Recyclers; and Mariama Gendemeh of Fresh V Agro Company—were celebrated at a ceremony held on November 28, 2024, at the Family Kingdom in Freetown.
The challenge, which aimed to inspire innovative solutions for climate change, began with 463 submissions nationwide.
From this impressive pool, 21 finalists were selected, representing groundbreaking ideas in renewable energy, waste management, and nature-based solutions. Ultimately, three innovators emerged as winners.
Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Jiwoh E. Abdulai, congratulated the winners and commended their efforts in addressing climate change through innovative solutions. He urged them to use the grants to expand their ideas, particularly in tackling plastic pollution and improving waste recycling.
“These innovations—converting plastic waste into backpacks and generating electricity for rural communities, as well as recycling waste into floor tiles and furniture—are brilliant solutions that can help Sierra Leone,” the Minister said. He also emphasized the importance of community support and government policies to ensure the success and scalability of such initiatives.
Abubakarr Massaquoi, Executive Chairman of EPA-SL, explained the rigorous selection process. Beginning in May, 463 applicants submitted entries, from which 21 finalists were shortlisted.
Those finalists participated in workshops and showcased their innovations at the Airpod Center at Fourah Bay College. A panel of judges selected the top three winners based on creativity, feasibility, and impact.
Massaquoi highlighted the challenge’s potential to address youth unemployment, noting that 70% of Sierra Leone’s population is comprised of young people. “This platform will not only create jobs but also foster innovation to tackle pressing environmental challenges,” he said, thanking UNDP for its support.
Tanzila Watta Sankoh, Team Lead for Sustainable Local Economic Development at UNDP, expressed her joy in celebrating the winners. She emphasized the urgency of addressing climate change with innovative and sustainable solutions.
“Climate change poses significant threats to ecosystems, economies, and communities worldwide. Traditional approaches are no longer sufficient. We need fresh ideas, bold thinking, and sustainable solutions to make a real difference,” Sankoh said. She reaffirmed UNDP’s commitment to supporting youth-driven initiatives that foster environmental sustainability and resilience in Sierra Leone.
The winners expressed gratitude for the opportunity to showcase their innovations. Peter George, one of the winners, reaffirmed his commitment to combating climate change and praised EPA-SL, UNDP, and their partners for supporting young innovators.
As Sierra Leone faces escalating climate challenges, the event underscored the power of innovation to drive sustainable development. Both the government and the private sector are encouraged to support these initiatives, ensuring a cleaner and more eco-friendly future for the nation.
