Many rural schools in Sierra Leone are in dire condition, with crumbling infrastructure posing serious risks to students. One often...
When youth potential meets opportunity, transformation happens.
Sierra Leone is a youthful nation. With an estimated population of 8.4 million, over 5 million people, more than 60%, are under the age of 25. As thousands of young people enter the job market each year, youth unemployment stands out as one of the country’s most urgent challenges. Many of these young individuals struggle to find meaningful work due to limited job opportunities, inadequate skills training, and barriers to financial inclusion.
In response to these growing challenges facing young people, ChildFund is investing in their potential through programs that focus on three core areas: creating pathways to safe and dignified work, equipping them with life skills and reproductive health education, and encouraging active participation in their communities. Through vocational training and job readiness support, ChildFund equips young people with the skills they need to secure employment, create jobs, earn an income, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Our Impact
3,010
took part in civic engagement activities, fostering increased youth participation in democratic processes and local governance.
2,421
fruit trees were planted as part of environmental conservation efforts, supporting climate action and sustainable livelihoods.
2,460
were equipped with essential knowledge and skills in advocacy and leadership, strengthening their capacity to influence positive change in their communities.
5,500
were engaged in environmental sustainability initiatives, promoting eco-conscious behaviors and community-led climate adaptation strategies.
200
were sensitized on the dangers of substance abuse, contributing to improved health outcomes and behavioral change.
3,060
actively participated in peacebuilding and conflict resolution initiatives, contributing to the promotion of social cohesion and community resilience.
3,450
accessed vocational training opportunities, enhancing their employability and income-generating potential.
150
received training on post-election violence prevention, enhancing community preparedness and peacekeeping capacities during electoral cycles.
Facts and figures from 2024 data.
Our Approach
To reach their full potential, young people need decent employment, financial inclusion, good health, and opportunities for agency and participation. Our youth programs promote economic, physical, social, and mental well-being, laying the foundation for youth to become catalysts of change in their families, communities, and country. We take a holistic approach, helping youth prepare not only for entering the workforce but also for continuing their education, and living safe, healthy and productive lives. To achieve this, our efforts focus on
With over 60% of Sierra Leone’s population under 25, the country faces growing pressure to create jobs for youth. Yet many lack the skills and training needed to succeed, fueling high unemployment and underemployment.
To bridge this gap, ChildFund supports vocational training programs that equip young people with both technical and life skills essential for employment, entrepreneurship, and resilience. In partnership with government, vocational institutions, and the private sector, these initiatives ensure youth are better prepared to drive the country’s economic growth.
Youth participation in advocacy and policy making is essential to ensure that policies address their specific needs and realities. Engaging in these processes allows young people to develop critical personal, social, and political skills, enabling them to influence decisions at local, national, and global levels.
In the recent past we have sponsored two child advocates to participate in the inaugural Africa Climate Summit in Kenya, COP-28 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and COP-29 in Azerbaijan.
One inspiring example is Philipa Cridedole who has been a prominent voice for children and youth in global environmental discussions. At the Africa Climate Summit, she delivered a powerful statement to the continent’s leaders, urging the inclusion of children in environmental decision-making to protect their future.
learn More:
- Africa: Children Call on Leaders to Put Them First in Climate Action
- An indelible first voice of the African people on climate
- School Children and Stakeholders Plant 400 Trees to Green Kabala Town
- 16-year-old ChildFund Ambassador, Philipa Cridedole. advocates for environmental sustainability to be included in school curriculum
Sierra Leone faces growing environmental challenges, from natural disasters to human-driven deforestation. In Bombali District’s Biriwa, Safroko Limba, and Paki Masabong chiefdoms, reliance on timber and charcoal has led to forest loss, soil erosion, and declining biodiversity.
With ChildFund’s support, Munafa-M’Patie Federation is leading change. The community distributed 1,000 fruit trees and launched awareness campaigns to promote afforestation and improve food security.
Featured Project
Vocational Training Boosts Employment and Economic Participation for Youth in Bombali
With over 60% of Sierra Leone’s population under the age of 25, the country faces an urgent need to expand decent work opportunities for young people. However, many youth remain unemployed or underemployed due to limited access to skills development and vocational training.
To address this challenge, ChildFund, in collaboration with government institutions, vocational training centres, and the private sector, is supporting comprehensive training programmes that equip youth with both technical and life skills. These efforts aim to enhance employability, promote entrepreneurship, and build resilience among young people. This video highlights the impact of vocational skills training in Bombali District, showcasing how targeted interventions are transforming the lives of young people and contributing to socio-economic development.
Promoting Youths
To bridge this gap, ChildFund supports vocational training programs that equip young people with both technical and life skills essential for employment, entrepreneurship, and resilience.
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Youth in Sierra Leone, who make up over 60% of the population, face significant risks of exploitation and abuse both...
If we don’t take care of the environment, how do we expect the environment to take care of us
