I departed Samoa today for the state of Iowa in the United States to attend the World Food Prize. Our focus on delivering on Feed Salone has attracted credible partners and support from multilateral institutions. We are committed to ensuring that we Feed Salone.

Updates from the Young Women Leading Innovation Challenge being implemented by @Youthaffairsmin and @UNFPASierraleon. We've received nearly 300 applications from female led organizations across the country. After careful consideration, we've shortlisted 73 for the next phase.

Today marked a significant step towards peace in Sierra Leone with the signing of the National Agreement among the Bike Riders Union, Sierra Leone Police, and the Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority. With a membership of 1,256,000, bike riders are uniquely positioned for peace.

The @ITCnews is in Sierra Leone to discuss the implementation of a $9M four-year project titled 'Empowering Youth through Digital Technologies' (2024-2028). This initiative aims to enhance youth participation in the digital economy, focusing particularly on young women.

At the High-Level Youth & Digital Compass Breakfast in New York, I emphasized the critical role of youth entrepreneurship and digital trade in driving economic empowerment and peacebuilding. I shared inspiring stories of young innovators like Fatmata and Musa.

This evening, I announced that in line with the decennial census calendar, my government will conduct a nationwide Population and Housing Census from 2nd to 15th December 2025. I urge all our partners and inhabitants of Sierra Leone to support the forthcoming decennial census.

Today, I had the pleasure of receiving Emmanuel Octave Bananeza, the New Country Director of Welthungerhilfe Sierra Leone, for a courtesy visit. We discussed WHH's initiatives aimed at enhancing food security, promoting agricultural development for youth.

*This evening @PresidentBio will address the nation on the Proclamation of the 2025 Population and Housing Census.* *The presidential address is slated for today Monday, 9th September 2024 at 8:00pm on SLBC TV and Radio.* *Don’t miss it!*

‼️More highlights from our new policy brief on Artificial Intelligence for Sustainable Youth Development in Africa‼️ Launching 20 September. Stay tuned. #AIYouthPolicy #YoungPeopleAtTheTable

Regardless of the circumstances, there is never an excuse for a man to raise his hand against a woman. My late mother taught me that a man has no right over a woman. If a man resorts to violence or disrespect, no amount of wealth or apology can rectify the harm done.

Just wrapped up an inspiring meeting with the National and regional presidents of the Bike Riders Association, where we delved into the crucial role of peace building and national cohesion. The conversations highlighted how pivotal our community can be in fostering peace.

Poverty eradication is an achievable goal. At the Ecosoc Youth Forum 2024, with the Kenema District Youth Council Leader where I highlighted how nation's youth are driving progress towards a brighter, equitable future. Together, they inspire and lead efforts for change.

When the Minister of Youth visited the former Beast Master for anointing @FrancisKaifala the Beast Master greeted him warmly, acknowledging his progress. He humorously remarked, "You're on the right track, you didn't spend 40 days and 40 nights sleeping in the Beast Wood!"

This below is my Peace message from Sierra Leone to the Peace Concert organised at the UN headquarters at the conclusion of Sierra Leone's August 2024 Presidency of the UN Security Council.

80% of the papers in today's cabinet were presented by women. The cabinet today was also nearly gender balanced (46% women ministers), affirming my government's commitment to women's empowerment. The energy reverberating in the room was amplified by the fact that 25% of today's cabinet are below age 40. This is the most diverse and inclusive cabinet ever, and we are poised to drive impactful change for a better Sierra Leone.

Today, I joined the leadership of our great SLPP to bid farewell to Dr. S. U. M. Jah. He dedicated his life to serving humanity as a medical practitioner and in many roles as a public servant at the highest levels of government. Dr. Jah both inspired and touched so many lives. He was a role model in his commitment to Bo School and OBBA. He will be sorely missed but always fondly remembered. My profound condolences go to the Jah family. Thank you for letting us share the virtues, life, and services of Dr. Jah. May Allah forgive his sins and grant his soul eternal rest in peace.

The government is expanding the democratic and civic space in our nation. The foundation of a thriving democracy lies in the active participation of its citizens and the openness of its governing bodies. Under this regime, we have seen a significant increase in accountability.

#FeedSalone is an all of government program. And it’s not just about rice. Today, I signed an MoU with @ormanbangs, Minister of Youth, and Princess Dugba, Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources, to pilot 12 fish ponds for youth in 8 districts. Together #WeWillFeedSalone.

I signed an MOU among @Youthaffairsmin, Ministry of Agriculture and Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources. It marks a significant milestone for youth empowerment in Sierra Leone. This partnership will identify and support youth beneficiaries under the FSRP Feed Salone 2024