Lessons from Kono: Youth Voices Reflect on COVID-19 and Civic Responsibility

In 2021, at a time when the world was still grappling with the far-reaching impacts of COVID-19, Peacelinks Sierra Leone, with support from the National Endowment for Democracy (NED), convened a civic education and youth engagement training in Kono District. The session formed part of a broader effort to strengthen national awareness and promote youth participation in social, economic, and governance processes across Sierra Leone. While the pandemic had disrupted lives and systems, it also created space for reflection, dialogue, and learning particularly among young people navigating uncertainty in their communities. From Dialogue to Reflection Although Peacelinks maintains its office in Freetown, its work continues to reach communities across the country. The Kono engagement was one such example, bringing together participants for a two-day interactive training designed to encourage critical thinking and civic responsibility. One of the most engaging moments of the training came during a structured group exercise. Participants were divided into two groups and tasked with reflecting on the impact of COVID-19, one focusing on the negative effects, and the other identifying any positive outcomes. The exercise was simple in design, but powerful in outcome. It allowed participants to analyze their lived experiences, exchange perspectives, and collectively make sense of a global crisis within their local realities. Understanding the Impact of COVID-19 The group examining the negative effects of COVID-19 painted a sobering picture. They highlighted the global lockdowns and restrictions that disrupted movement and livelihoods, the collapse of economic activity, and the widespread unemployment that followed the closure of businesses. Participants also pointed to rising poverty, increasing prices of goods and services, and declining food security as major concerns affecting households. For many, the pandemic did not just bring a health crisis, it deepened existing socio-economic vulnerabilities. Particularly striking was the recognition of social impacts. The closure of schools, participants noted, contributed to a rise in teenage pregnancy, while fear and tension became widespread in communities during quarantine periods. Limitations in medical equipment and diagnostic capacity further compounded the challenges faced by the health system. Seeing the Other Side In contrast, the second group took on the more difficult task of identifying positive effects. Their reflections offered a different lens. They noted that the pandemic led to increased attention to hygiene and sanitation practices, something that remains critical for public health. Lockdowns, while restrictive, also created opportunities for family reunions and strengthened bonds among relatives. Participants observed a rise in the use of social media and increased engagement with radio and television, which became key sources of information during the crisis. They also highlighted a growing sense of empathy within families and communities as people supported one another through difficult times. While these positives did not outweigh the challenges, they provided an important reminder of resilience and adaptation. Learning Through Participation At the close of the group presentations, the facilitator commended participants for their thoughtful contributions. He noted that while it is often easier to identify the negative impacts of a crisis, recognizing positive outcomes requires a deeper level of reflection. In that regard, both groups demonstrated strong analytical thinking and engagement. The session reinforced the importance of participatory learning. Rather than passively receiving information, participants were actively involved in analyzing issues, debating ideas, and drawing conclusions based on their own experiences. A Call for Youth Engagement In his closing remarks, the Director of Peacelinks, Mr. Amadu Tarawallie, expressed appreciation to participants and stakeholders for their commitment to the training. He emphasized that national development, governance, and civic responsibility cannot be left solely in the hands of politicians or government institutions. “Young people must be informed, engaged, and actively involved in shaping the future of this country,” he stressed. The training itself was designed to support this vision by promoting national consciousness, encouraging youth participation in democratic processes, and strengthening a culture of peace. Looking Ahead As the session concluded with a group photograph and the singing of the national anthem, it marked more than the end of a workshop. It reflected the ongoing work of building informed, engaged, and responsible citizens. The Kono training stands as a reminder that even in times of crisis, there are opportunities to learn, reflect, and strengthen community resilience. Through continued partnerships and community engagement, Peacelinks remains committed to empowering young people to take an active role in governance and national development.