Dr. Sengeh Applauds Salia Bakavodeh’s Cultural Unity Drive
Sierra Leone’s Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, has praised renowned Sierra Leonean musician Salia Bakavodeh for using music and cultural expression as powerful tools to promote peace, unity, and national development. The commendation came on Sunday during a vibrant live cultural performance at the Kenema City Plaza, which the Chief Minister attended as part of the government’s continued engagement with communities through arts and culture.
The well-attended event attracted a cross-section of society, including community members, traditional leaders, youth groups, entertainers, and cultural enthusiasts from across the Eastern Region. More than a musical show, the gathering served as a unifying platform that reinforced social cohesion and highlighted the role of creative arts in advancing Sierra Leone’s Big Five Game Changers development agenda.
Addressing the enthusiastic crowd, Dr. Sengeh emphasized that national development is not limited to infrastructure, policies, or economic reforms, but also includes social harmony, cultural expression, and shared national identity. He applauded the peaceful and orderly nature of the event, noting that the absence of violence was a clear reflection of the discipline, maturity, and civic responsibility of the people of Kenema.
“Development is also entertainment,” the Chief Minister stated. “We have been here throughout the night and we have not seen or heard any violence. This shows that you are decent and responsible citizens. As Salia said in his song, your brother is your brother. This is development, and we must continue to support activities that bring us together as one people.”
Dr. Sengeh further reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting cultural and creative initiatives, stressing that such engagements play a critical role in fostering national unity, empowering young people, and driving social transformation. He noted that arts and culture align strongly with the Big Five Game Changers, particularly human capital development, youth empowerment, and social cohesion.
In his remarks, Salia Bakavodeh expressed deep appreciation to the Chief Minister, the Government of Sierra Leone, and the people of Kenema for their overwhelming support and warm reception. He described the event as a celebration of peace, culture, and shared identity, reiterating his dedication to using music as a vehicle for unity, positive values, and national progress.
The event underscored the growing recognition of arts and culture as essential components of sustainable development. By promoting peace, strengthening community bonds, and creating inclusive spaces for youth participation, cultural initiatives such as this performance continue to demonstrate their value in delivering meaningful development outcomes.
As Sierra Leone advances its national development agenda under the Big Five Game Changers, the Kenema City Plaza event stands as a clear example of how culture, creativity, and responsible entertainment can contribute to building a united, peaceful, and prosperous nation.
