By Foday Moriba Conteh
The Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MOICE) has announced the launch of the first-ever Salone Civic Festival, scheduled to take place on December 11-12, 2024, at the Youyi Building in Freetown. The announcement was made by the Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, on Thursday, November 14, 2024, during a meeting held at the Ministry’s Conference Hall.
The Salone Civic Festival aims to strengthen the relationship between the Government and its citizens by fostering open dialogue, celebrating Sierra Leone’s rich cultural heritage and promoting civic responsibility. The two-day event will feature an array of activities designed to engage and inspire the public.
Addressing the gathering, Chernor Bah, Minister of Information and Civic Education, said during the festival Ministries, Departments and Agencies will host booths to share updates on the Government’s “Big Five” agenda, answer public inquiries and showcase progress on national priorities.
He added that the festival will feature the unveiling of the National Civic Education Strategy, anchored on six pillars: Love Salone, Feed Salone, Clean Salone, Heal Salone, Digitize Salone and Salone for We All. These initiatives, according to him, aim to promote national pride, responsible citizenship and sustainable development.
The Minister noted that attendees can look forward to music performances, art exhibitions and fashion showcases that highlight Sierra Leone’s cultural diversity. A dedicated Food Fair will also offer a taste of local cuisine and that the festival will include live music, dance performances and screenings of Sierra Leonean films.
He also revealed that the festival will include Civic Awards which will recognize individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to civic and national development as well as Key policies such as the National Records and Archives Policy, National Film Policy and that the National Information and Civic Education Policies will also be launched during the event.
Minister Chernor Bah emphasized the importance of the festival in promoting civic pride and active citizenship. “This is more than just an event it’s a platform to celebrate Sierra Leone’s achievements, engage citizens in meaningful dialogue and chart a course for a united and responsible future,” he stated.
The Ministry has extended an invitation to partners and stakeholders for collaboration and planning meetings to finalize preparations for the festival. The event promises to be a milestone in fostering civic consciousness and unity in Sierra Leone.
Citizens are encouraged to participate in this historic event, which marks the beginning of an annual tradition dedicated to celebrating Sierra Leone’s identity, values, and progress.
