Sierra Leone Presents Cotton Tree Civic Education Plan at Youth Forum

At the 30th AFS Youth Assembly in the United States, Sierra Leone showcased a groundbreaking national blueprint for civic engagement the Cotton Tree National Civic Education Strategy (2024–2030). Speaking at the country’s high-level side event, Mr. Timothy Sam, Head of Partnerships and Delivery Team Lead at the Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MoICE), outlined how the strategy is transforming civic awareness and participation nationwide.

He traced the evolution of civic education in Sierra Leone, highlighting the turning point in 2023 when President Julius Maada Bio restructured the ministry and appointed Minister Chernor Bah, whose leadership has reignited national efforts to strengthen identity, responsibility, and inclusive citizen involvement.

Launched in December 2024 during the Salone Civic Festival, the Cotton Tree Strategy emerged from consultations with more than 450 individuals and 400 organizations across all 16 districts, backed by UNDP, UNESCO, PLAN International, and UNFPA.

The initiative is built on six strategic pillars
Love Salone, Feed Salone, Heal Salone, Digitise Salone, Clean Salone, and Salone for We All all aligned with Sierra Leone’s broader BIG 5 national agenda. An integrated information strategy ensures these pillars move from vision to real community impact.

In just one year under Minister Bah, notable milestones include the National Civic Festival, the National Civic Days series, and the creation of Salone Day, a new nationwide celebration of Sierra Leone’s heritage. UNESCO has recognized the initiative as a regional model for fostering civic identity.

Concluding his presentation, Mr. Sam invited delegates and partners to join the December 2025 Salone Civic Festival a flagship event to deepen government citizen connections, celebrate achievements, encourage civic leadership, drive innovation, and showcase Sierra Leone’s cultural pride.