By:  Samuel Karim ( An Academic, Researcher and Consultant)

3rd June 2025

As Sierra Leone approaches the 2028 general elections, the political landscape is being increasingly shaped by a new generation of leaders seeking to redefine national governance. Among the key players poised to influence this transformation is the National Young Congress (NYC) of the All People’s Congress (APC). For the NYC to become a catalytic force within Sierra Leone’s democratic framework, it must strategically align its vision and operations with the enduring ideologies of Pan-Africanism and Nationalism. These ideologies, rooted in collective liberation, self-reliance, and sovereign development, offer a guiding compass for leadership grounded in people-centered governance.

Embracing Pan-Africanism: Reclaiming Ideological Identity

Pan-Africanism emphasizes continental unity, solidarity among African peoples, and resistance against neocolonial influences. For the NYC-APC, aligning with Pan-Africanist values means more than symbolic rhetoric. It involves a deliberate ideological reorientation grounded in policies and programs that:

Promote regional integration and collaboration with other African youth movements and political organizations.

Advocate for educational reforms that teach African history, entrepreneurship, and civic responsibility.

Encourage youth entrepreneurship and innovation by supporting continental trade, digital skills, and start-ups.

The Young Congress must position itself as an agent of intellectual revival, restoring confidence in Sierra Leonean and African youth to be self-determined leaders of their destinies.

Nationalism: A Call for Sovereignty and Patriotism

In parallel, Nationalism not in its narrow or exclusionary sense, but as a love for country and commitment to national development must be central to the NYC-APC’s strategic posture. This means:

Championing community-led development, particularly in underserved rural areas.

Developing youth-centered political education that inspires a sense of duty, volunteerism, and civic accountability.

Mobilizing Sierra Leonean youth to become custodians of national resources, ensuring sustainable management and benefit-sharing in mining, agriculture, and energy.

This form of Nationalism also demands a detachment from dependency politics and foreign-aid mentalities. Instead, the NYC-APC must model a generation that believes in the power of local innovation and Sierra Leonean potential.

Strategic Steps for Political Ascension in 2028

To effectively ascend to governance in 2028, the NYC-APC must go beyond ideological alignment and engage in practical, measurable strategies that translate vision into votes:

1. Youth Mobilization and Political Literacy

Build a nationwide grassroots movement to educate young voters on the power of their ballot.

A well-informed youth electorate is more likely to align with a party that reflects their aspirations.

2. Policy Innovation and Manifesto Development

Develop a youth manifesto grounded in Pan-Africanist and nationalist ideals. Focus areas should include youth employment, health equity, agricultural reform, education transformation, and digital inclusion.

3. Strategic Alliances and Inclusivity

Form coalitions with progressive civil society groups, student unions, and youth organizations. Demonstrating ideological inclusiveness across regions, tribes, and religions will consolidate national appeal.

4. Digital Campaigning and Messaging

Utilize social media, podcasts, and virtual town halls to engage the digital-savvy electorate. Craft compelling narratives that connect Pan-Africanist ideals to local realities.

5. Youth Leadership Training and Political Grooming

Institutionalize leadership academies within the party to train young cadres on political ethics, diplomacy, policy analysis, and governance.

Conclusion:

The Promise of a Reimagined Future

The strategic alignment of the NYC-APC with Pan-Africanism and Nationalism is not a mere branding exercise it is a moral and political necessity. In an era where youth are both the majority and the most marginalized, a radical, principled, and innovative youth wing can reset the trajectory of Sierra Leone’s democracy.

By internalizing these values and translating them into action, the NYC-APC not only positions itself as a credible force for 2028 but as a generational movement that will shape the republic’s future for decades to come. The time to act is now, for 2028 will not wait.