LocationsHow Sierra Leone is Transforming Youth Futures Through Youth Connekt Centre
May 5, 2026
Group photo of the UN Resident Coordinator, UNPD's Resident Representative, the Resident Minister North, the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, and community people in Mongo–Falaba District
The United Nations Country Team, in collaboration with the Resident Minister North and the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, visited the Mongo–Falaba Youth Connekt Centre on 24 April. The mission was led by Kevin Petrini, Deputy Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
The delegation was received by the District Youth Chairman, who guided a comprehensive tour of the facility, followed by a roundtable discussion with young people and key community stakeholders.
Established in 2022 with funding from UNDP and implemented by the Ministry of Youth Affairs, the Youth Connekt Centre has become a vital hub for empowerment in one of Sierra Leone’s most remote and underserved districts. The Centre provides an inclusive platform where young people can learn, connect, and innovate, offering training in digital skills, creative industries, and entrepreneurship. Through these opportunities, youth are equipped with the confidence and practical tools needed to succeed in an increasingly digital and competitive world.
A group photo of the beneficiaries
During the tour, the delegation visited the district’s first computer training lab, where young people are gaining hands-on experience in digital literacy skills and graphic design. These skills are already enabling beneficiaries to contribute meaningfully to their communities and access new economic opportunities.
The visit also highlighted youth-led livelihood initiatives supported through the Centre, including a car wash facility and a fish farming project. Both initiatives are designed to promote economic empowerment, generate income, and strengthen community resilience.
The engagement concluded with an interactive roundtable discussion involving the United Nations Country Team, the Resident Minister North, representatives from the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, district council officials, and community stakeholders. The session created space for young people to share their experiences, successes, and challenges, ensuring their voices remain central to the Centre’s continued growth.
The UN Resident Coordinator speaking on a panel during the visit
The Resident Minister North, Mr. Ibrahim Jalloh, encouraged young people to fully utilize the opportunities provided by the Centre and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to sustaining and expanding its impact. Stakeholders commended UNDP for its timely and impactful investment in youth development.
One beneficiary, Sarah Foday Fofanah, shared:
“The training I received at the computer lab helped me secure a job—an opportunity I would not have had without the skills I gained here.”
Sarah Foday Fofanah sharing a testimony
Closing the visit, Kevin Petrini praised the resilience, leadership, and coordination demonstrated by young people in managing the Centre:
“What we are seeing in Mongo–Falaba is the power of investing in young people, not just as beneficiaries, but as leaders and innovators. When youth are given the right tools and opportunities, they drive solutions that transform their communities.”
Deputy Resident Representative Kevin Petrini and UN in Sierra Leone Resident Coordinator Seraphine Wakana engaging with beneficiaries
He reaffirmed UNDP’s commitment to placing young people at the centre of development efforts, ensuring they are empowered to shape a more inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous future.
For Enquiries:Contact:
Tanya Honnah
Communications and Partnership Analyst - UNDP Sierra Leone
Email: tanya.honnah@undp.org