By: Salamatu Conteh
28th October 2026
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Hon. Chernor Bah, Minister of Information and Civic Education, has engaged young people in a fireside conversation on “Youth Voices, Digital Democracy, AI and the Future of Civic Engagement”at the Sierra Leone Youth Policy Dialogue Forum organised by ECOSOCC at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Freetown.
The discussion explored how young Sierra Leoneans are using digital platforms to demand accountability, influence public policy and shape the future of democracy. It also examined the role of the Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MoICE) in promoting civic awareness, access to information, responsible digital engagement and meaningful citizen participation.
Speaking during the interactive session, Minister Bah highlighted the Ministry’s efforts to bring government closer to citizens through accessible communication channels, including multilingual public information, toll-free telephone services and regular government press conferences where citizens can engage ministers and ask questions on issues affecting their lives.
He acknowledged that more work remains to be done to strengthen citizen participation, particularly in reaching young people where they already express their views and engage in public discussions.
On the question of establishing regular youth-government dialogue platforms, Minister Bah argued that meaningful engagement should go beyond formal meetings and traditional institutional structures. He emphasised the need for government to develop practical ways of listening to young people across digital platforms and incorporating their concerns into public policy discussions.
The Minister also encouraged young people to recognise progress made in the country while continuing to demand accountability and improvements in governance. He highlighted advancements in inclusive education and disability rights, noting the importance of translating progressive policies into practical support that improves people’s lives.
He cited the Ministry’s commitment to inclusion, including the provision of sign language interpreters at all its events, and ongoing efforts to train more interpreters in collaboration with Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO), with the aim of extending such support across government.
Reflecting on youth leadership, Minister Bah expressed pride in the growing opportunities for young people to participate in governance and leadership in Sierra Leone. He encouraged young people to believe in their ability to lead, contribute to national development and shape the country’s future.
The fireside conversation, moderated by Ms. Iris Aminata Bangura, provided a platform for young people to engage directly with the Minister on digital inclusion, misinformation and disinformation, artificial intelligence, public accountability and the need for stronger dialogue between citizens and public institutions.
