In an electrifying and vibrant display of unity and youthful exuberance, the Pre-Conference Walk leading up to the National Youth and Adolescent Family Planning Conference 2024 was nothing short of inspirational. Held along the scenic 4km stretch from Freetown Golf Club to Family Kingdom Resort at Lumley Beach, the event brought together over 250 young people from across Sierra Leone’s 16 districts, as they walked to break the cycles limiting access to family planning and sexual reproductive health (SRH) services for young people.
The atmosphere was buzzing with energy, as the adolescents and youth—representing the future of Sierra Leone—walked with purpose, carrying a powerful message for the government and policymakers: “It’s time to break the cycles.” The colorful event was attended by representatives from UNFPA, DKT, USAID Momentum, the Ministry of Health, the National Youth Council, the Ministry of Youth, and numerous media houses, all standing in solidarity with the vibrant youth.
As each step was taken, the message became louder and clearer: access to family planning and SRH services for young people must no longer be impeded by policy gaps, traditional barriers, or a lack of investment. These cycles, which have led to unintended pregnancies, unsafe abortions, and limited opportunities for young people, must be broken. The 4km walk was symbolic—every stride was a call for change, urging policymakers to recognize the urgency of addressing these critical issues that directly impact the lives of adolescents and youth.
Franklin D. Roosevelt once famously said, “We cannot always build the future for our youth, but we can build our youth for the future.” This sentiment resonated throughout the walk, as it was clear that the youth of Sierra Leone are not only ready to take on the future, but are actively demanding the tools and environment they need to thrive.
This Pre-Conference Walk served as the perfect build-up to the National Youth and Adolescent Family Planning Conference, where the conversations and recommendations made by these young leaders will shape the future of family planning and SRH in Sierra Leone. Sierra Leone’s youthful population—over 70% of the total—is a critical mass, and if the country is to achieve the demographic dividend, the time to invest in their health, education, and future is now.
