President Bio Symbolically Launches Youth-Led Household Enterprise Grants in Makeni*

*Makeni, Sierra Leone – June 30, 2026* - A major boost to youth empowerment unfolded in Makeni as His Excellency Dr. Julius Maada Bio, President of Sierra Leone, symbolically presented cheques to beneficiaries of the Youth-Led Household Enterprises Initiative during the Presidential Town Hall 2026. The initiative, implemented under the Productive Social Safety Nets and Youth Employment (PSSNYE) Project, injected USD 450,000 into the local economy, with 1,500 young entrepreneurs each receiving USD 300 in Leones equivalent.

President Bio’s symbolic gesture underscored his government’s commitment to creating jobs and expanding opportunities for Sierra Leone’s youth. By personally handing over cheques to three beneficiaries, he reaffirmed his administration’s vision of inclusive growth and equal opportunity for all, regardless of region, political background, gender, or origin.

Ambassador Ernest Mbaimba Ndomahina, Commissioner of NaCSA, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the President for his leadership in driving youth employment.

*“Thank you, President Julius Maada Bio. You committed to improving, developing, and positioning Sierra Leone to remain unrivaled. Today, in Makeni – Bombali District, 1,500 beneficiaries will each receive a $300 business grant. This means $450,000 has been injected into the local economy. We must also thank the World Bank and other international partners,”* he stated.

In a social media post, the Commissioner of the National Youth Commission (NaYCOM) highlighted the broader impact of the initiative:

*“Today in Makeni, His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio reaffirmed his mantra that every youth is entitled to equal opportunities. In a powerful climax to his Town Hall engagement, the President symbolically handed over cheques totaling $450,000 to 1,500 young people under the PSSNYE Project. These beneficiaries were not only financially empowered but also trained in demand-driven skills to ensure sustainability and impact.”*

Idris Turay, Senior Director and National Coordinator of the PSSNYE Project, emphasized the multi-stakeholder approach and the need for expanded funding:

*“Beyond the fact that the PSSNYE project used a multi-stakeholder approach, the impact is visible. Our interventions are pilots, which means there is a need for more funding to reach other deserving Sierra Leoneans. Thanks to the Government and the World Bank for making this possible,”* he noted.

The event also featured testimonies from beneficiaries, who shared how the grants would transform their household enterprises and create sustainable livelihoods:

Adama Fullahmusu Kamara commented *“For years, women have struggled to keep small businesses alive with very little capital. This grant is more than money — it is hope. With $300, I can expand my tailoring shop, employ another young woman, and support my children’s education. We are grateful to the government and partners for believing in us.”*

A member from the Young Generation Movement stated *“As a youth leader, I see how unemployment affects our peers every day. This grant gives us the chance to prove that young people can build sustainable enterprises. My group plans to invest in poultry farming, which will not only feed families but also create jobs for other youths in Makeni.”* he commented.

*“I have always dreamed of running a small electronics repair shop. With this grant, I can finally buy the tools I need. It feels empowering to know that the government and the World Bank are supporting us directly. This is the beginning of independence for many of us.”* A member of the Makeni Women’s group said.

*For further information on this and other matters, please contact:*

*The Information, Education and Communication Unit*

*📞 +23278155556 / +23277022709 / +23230518539*