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By Fanta S Jalloh
In a historic event to foster unity, patriotism, and active citizenship, His Excellency President Rtd. Brigadier Julius Maada Bio yesterday Wednesday 11th December, 2024 officially opened the Salone Civic Festival held at the front lawn of Youyi Building. The two-day festival, hosted by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, featured an impressive turnout, including First Lady Dr. Fatima Bio, Paramount Chiefs, Ministers, partners, and other dignitaries.
In his brief statement Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah said the heart of the festival was the launch of the Civic Education Strategy, a comprehensive framework centered on six pillars: “Love Salone, Feed Salone, Clean Salone, Heal Salone, Digitize Salone, and Salone for We All.
The strategy aims to promote responsible citizenship, national pride, and unity, aligning with the government’s "Big Five Agenda."
According to the Minister, this event seeks to bring the government closer to the people by creating a platform for ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs), including the Offices of the President, Vice President, First Lady, and Chief Minister, to interface with citizens on the status of the government’s Big Five agenda in the past year.
“Today marks a significant milestone as the Ministry of Information and Civic Education unveils its newly redesigned website, alongside those of other government ministries.
This initiative demonstrates our unwavering commitment to improving public access to essential civic information and delivering on our promises to the people of Sierra Leone” he averred.
In his keynote speech, President Julius Maada Bio emphasized that the ‘Salone’ Civic Festival was not just an event but a movement.
“This is a collective recognition of who we are, where we come from, and where we aspire to go as a nation,” he declared.
The President acknowledged Sierra Leone's resilience in overcoming past challenges, urging citizens to harness that same spirit for growth and prosperity.
Highlighting the strides made in civic education, he referenced key milestones, such as the establishment of the National Commission for Civic Education in 2018 and the integration of civic education into the national curriculum in 2022 and 2023.
"Civic education is vital to fostering national cohesion, peace, and unity," President Bio remarked. "It represents our commitment to nurturing a shared future for all Sierra Leoneans."
President Bio called on citizens to reflect on their roles in shaping Sierra Leone's future.
He stressed the importance of accountability, integrity, and service, urging every Sierra Leonean to embrace their civic duties.
“Our nation's growth demands commitment from all—entrepreneurs, farmers, educators, youth, elders, and public servants,” he stated.
The President also underscored the need to transcend divisions and build a cohesive, inclusive society.
“No tribe, region, or faith defines Sierra Leone alone. We are stronger when we stand together and work towards a common purpose.”
President Bio concluded his speech with a rallying call: “Let us work together to build a Sierra Leone that reflects our courage, ambition, and unity. As John F. Kennedy once said, ‘Ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country.’ SALONE BIG PASS WE ALL!”
With that, President Bio declared the Salone Civic Festival officially open, leaving attendees inspired and ready to contribute to Sierra Leone’s progress.

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