Political figure Dr. Ibrahim Bangura has called on young people across Sierra Leone to become more actively involved in civic and political affairs, emphasizing that the decisions made today will directly influence the future they inherit.
In a message directed at the nation’s youth, Bangura stressed that politics extends beyond political debates and government institutions, noting that public policies affect everyday issues such as employment opportunities, housing costs, internet access, environmental protection, freedom of expression, and economic development.
He urged young people not to remain passive observers, warning that disengagement allows others to make decisions that ultimately shape their lives.
Highlighting what he described as three critical areas of engagement, Bangura encouraged youth to focus on understanding policies rather than political drama or personalities. He emphasized the importance of examining proposed policies, their implementation mechanisms, and their potential impact on citizens.
He also called on young people to recognize and utilize their collective influence, pointing to their numerical strength, digital networks, and technological skills as powerful tools for driving change. According to him, youth participation can take various forms, including voting, community organizing, engaging elected representatives, advocating online, and seeking leadership positions at the local level.
Bangura further encouraged independent thinking and constructive dialogue, urging young citizens to engage with differing viewpoints, evaluate information critically, and remain open to changing their perspectives when presented with credible evidence.
“The goal is not simply to win arguments, but to help build a country that can thrive in the years ahead,” he stated.
He concluded by reminding young people that they do not need permission to care about the future of their nation, describing the future as something currently being shaped by present-day decisions and actions.
The message, which was shared by Ambassador Supa Dupa, forms part of ongoing discussions aimed at increasing youth participation in governance and national development.