Empowerment Initiative Launched in Kono and Falaba
Christian Aid and its partners have initiated a two-year project, “Catalysing Youth Leadership in Decision-making and Economic Life for Inclusive Development” (You Lead Project), funded by the European Union through the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund.
The project, worth €1,174,874, will be implemented in the Kono and Falaba districts. It aims to strengthen youth-led civil society organisations to encourage inclusive governance and create sustainable economic opportunities. The initiative primarily focuses on young people, women, and individuals with disabilities.
As part of the project, €250,000 has been set aside for Innovative Entrepreneurship Grants for local organisations. The Network Movement for Justice and Development (NMJD) has received €150,000 to aid 36 young entrepreneurs, while the Global Youth Network for Empowerment has been awarded €100,000 for 25 young individuals.
A key focus is promoting economic independence for women and securing their land rights through the Women’s Land for Peace initiative. Marbey Sartie, Programs and Partnership Coordinator at Christian Aid, stated that eight women’s groups have benefited from this funding, which aims to enhance economic stability and peaceful coexistence. Mr. Sartie highlighted that resolving land disputes is essential for peacebuilding in local chiefdoms.
Joseph Ansumana, NMJD District Programs Manager in Kono, emphasised the goal of helping vulnerable groups achieve financial self-reliance through sustainable livelihoods.
Sahr John Kemmoh, a visually impaired member of the AgroMusic Empire group, expressed gratitude for the grant, calling it a transformative opportunity for his organisation to invest in agricultural processing.
Kono District Council Chairman Augustine Sahr Sheku praised the European Union, Christian Aid, and their partners for their support, noting that the initiative aligns with the government’s “Big Five Game Changers” strategy for youth development. He urged beneficiaries to manage the funds wisely to strengthen Kono’s economy.
In addition to financial support, the You Lead Project includes extensive capacity-building and technical training. Beneficiaries across both districts are receiving courses in leadership, financial management, resource mobilization, advocacy, proposal writing, and project monitoring.
Furthermore, 350 young men, women, and individuals with disabilities are enrolled in vocational training for skills in ICT, tailoring, leatherwork, carpentry, welding, catering, cosmetology, and electrical installations.
To promote long-term community stability, the project aims to teach 5,400 young people skills in peacebuilding, conflict resolution, dialogue, and negotiation over the next two years. The launch event concluded with the presentation of cheques to various youth and women-led groups across Kono District.
