The Government of Sierra Leone, through the Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MOICE), has officially launched the 2025 edition of the Salone Civic Festival, a major national event designed to promote civic participation, accountability and national progress. The launch took place on Tuesday, 11th November, 2025 at the Miatta Conference Centre, Youyi Building in Freetown.
In his statement, the Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming festival particularly noting the strong presence of young people during the launch. “I am delighted to launch the Salone Civic Festival today with mostly young people in attendance because they make up 65 percent of our population. This festival is an opportunity for Government to meet with its citizens,” he said.
Scheduled to run from 11th to 13th December 2025, the Salone Civic Festival will be the largest civic engagement event of its kind in Sierra Leone. It will bring together Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), Civil Society Organizations and citizens on one platform to reflect on national progress and strengthen collaboration. The festival is being organized in partnership with the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development (MoPED).
Chernor Bah emphasized that the event directly aligns with His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio’s directive for MDAs to publicly showcase their achievements and engage citizens meaningfully. “This Festival is a contest of development; an opportunity for every institution to showcase what has been achieved and how citizens can engage,” the Minister noted.
Highlighting the major components of the three-day festival, he said it will feature a Film and Documentary Showcase, a Grand Civic Quiz Competition and the Peace and Unity “Salone Big Pass We All” Concert. There will also be daily panel discussions where citizens will directly engage Government leaders on progress made in key priority areas under the Government’s Big Five Agenda.
“This is an opportunity for you to ask questions, hold your leaders accountable and be part of the national conversation on development,” the Minister encouraged the audience.
The opening ceremony will be graced by His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, who will deliver the keynote address. Other distinguished guests expected include the UNESCO Regional Director for Africa and the President of Columbia University’s Population and Family Health Program.
Concluding his address, Chernor Bah urged young Sierra Leoneans to embrace optimism and take bold steps toward transforming the nation. “Those of us who are foolish enough to dream big and believe in the impossible; this is our moment. Take advantage of opportunities and let Sierra Leone fly higher,” he stated.
