On Monday, July 14, 2025, the Sierra Leone Embassy in Seoul, South Korea, had the honor of hosting the country’s Minister of Youth Affairs, Mr. Ibrahim Sannoh. He was in town for the 13th World Ministers Forum, organized by the International Youth Fellowship (IYF).

Minister Sannoh touched down in South Korea on Thursday, July 10, 2025, and since then, he’s been busy with a series of high-profile meetings focused on youth empowerment, innovation, and sustainable development.

As he welcomed the Minister to the Embassy, Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to South Korea, H.E. Paul Sobba Massaquoi, praised Mr. Sannoh for his new role and expressed gratitude to President Julius Maada Bio for giving young people a chance to take on leadership positions in his administration.

Ambassador Massaquoi highlighted the Youth Minister’s enthusiastic participation and impactful presentation at the IYF conference, where he clearly articulated the government’s vision for youth development and empowerment under President Bio’s leadership.

He also recognized Mr. Sannoh’s dedication to connecting with fellow youth ministers, policymakers, and global leaders to discuss strategies for uplifting young people and fostering meaningful international partnerships.

In his remarks, Minister Sannoh thanked the Ambassador and his diplomatic team for their warm welcome and for consistently enhancing Sierra Leone’s reputation on the world stage.

He appreciated the Embassy’s efforts in strengthening the ties between Sierra Leone and South Korea, especially in the realms of youth development and collaboration.

“Thanks to President Bio’s leadership, Sierra Leone has made remarkable progress in empowering youth and continues to create inclusive opportunities for our young citizens,” Minister Sannoh stated.

He also expressed his gratitude to the ambassador and his team for the warm reception he received upon arriving at Incheon International Airport.

During the courtesy visit, Madam Aisha Sema Sillah, the Head of Chancery, expressed her appreciation for Minister Sannoh's participation in the global youth forum. She pointed out that there are already several Memorandum of Understanding in place that focus on youth-related initiatives and encouraged the Minister to take an active role in making sure they are implemented.

Madam Sillah highlighted that the Minister's engagement at the forum has significantly bolstered both bilateral and multilateral partnerships, paving the way for new opportunities to promote youth-centered projects both locally and internationally.

Michaella Bonnie 

Information Attache 

Embassy of Sierra leone Seoul 

Info@sierra-leone.or.kr