Africa-Press – Sierra-Leone. The Government of Sierra Leone has officially unveiled its Cotton Tree National Civic Education Strategy (2024–2030) during a prominent side event at the 30th AFS Youth Assembly in the United States.
The keynote address was presented by Mr. Timothy Sam, Head of Partnerships and Delivery Team Lead at the Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MoICE).
During his speech, Sam stressed on the importance of the Cotton Tree Strategy in enhancing civic awareness across the nation. He noted that the initiative gained traction following President Julius Maada Bio’s restructuring of the Ministry of Information in 2023 and the appointment of Minister Chernor Bah, which reflects a renewed government commitment to fostering national identity and civic participation.
The Cotton Tree Strategy was launched in December 2024 at the Salone Civic Festival and is designed as a national framework for civic education. It was developed through consultations with over 450 individuals and 400 stakeholders from all 16 districts, with support from UNDP, UNESCO, PLAN International, and UNFPA.
The strategy is based on six strategic pillars: Love Salone, Feed Salone, Heal Salone, Digitise Salone, Clean Salone, and Salone for We All. These pillars align with the country’s broader “BIG 5” national agenda, ensuring that civic education initiatives are relevant to Sierra Leone’s development goals. An accompanying information strategy aims to promote engagement and impact nationwide.
In the year since Minister Bah took office, the MoICE has notably seen major achievements, including the establishment of the National Civic Festival, the launch of the National Civic Days series, and the introduction of Salone Day, which celebrates Sierra Leone’s heritage and history. UNESCO has recognized those efforts as a regional case study for promoting civic identity.
Sam concluded his remarks by inviting delegates and partners to the upcoming Salone Civic Festival in December 2025. He stated that the event will focus on strengthening government-citizen connections, celebrating achievements, fostering civic leadership, and promoting cultural pride throughout Sierra Leone.
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