Laj-K’s Insights
In Silicon Valley’s innovative hub, Dr. Alhaji K. Tarawally, an advocate for youth empowerment and good governance, has turned his passion for social media into a sustainable side income. After years of sharing thoughtful articles, captivating photos, and adventurous personal travel videos from around the world, he recently received approval to monetize his content on Facebook and TikTok.
His modest earnings highlight a stark reality: while he thrives online, many of his peers in Sierra Leone struggle with limited job opportunities and unreliable electricity. This personal success story serves as a powerful reminder of the widening digital gap and inequalities in the country.
In Sierra Leone, youth unemployment is a pressing issue, affecting a staggering 65-70% of the youth population. This figure, based on pre-2021 UNDP reports, not only traps an entire generation in cycles of frustration and stagnation but also requires immediate attention. Despite repeated promises from political leaders, including Chief Minister Dr. David Moina Sengeh, the potential of social media monetization—a global tool for economic empowerment—remains frustratingly out of reach.
Nearly three years ago, Chief Minister Sengeh launched the “#WeWillDeliver” campaign, vowing to enable access to monetization on platforms like Facebook and TikTok. However, these pledges have yet to materialize, reflecting deeper challenges such as corruption, healthcare shortcomings, and persistent power outages that hinder progress.
The disparity is striking: While young creators in cities like Accra and Lagos are seizing digital opportunities, many Sierra Leoneans struggle with basic internet access and inconsistent electricity. Social media platforms such as Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok have empowered creators around the world, but in Sierra Leone, bureaucratic obstacles and inaction hinder the unlocking of this potential.
This issue is not just local; it’s a missed opportunity for Sierra Leone to engage with a global economy where content creation can directly alleviate unemployment. The potential for our youth to contribute to this economy through their creativity and innovation is vast, and we are currently missing out on it.
Looking across Africa, the contrast is clear. In Nigeria’s bustling Lagos, creators document everyday life, culture, and innovation, earning thousands of dollars through YouTube partnerships and TikTok sponsorships. In Ghana, aspiring filmmakers share local stories on Facebook, converting views into a steady income that supports their families and communities. South Africa boasts entrepreneurs who utilize smartphones and creativity to build online businesses, showcasing how digital tools can transform lives.
The United States provides a similar model for success. In dynamic cities like New York and Los Angeles, ordinary people are transitioning from traditional jobs—such as Airbnb hosting or street vending—to full-time content creation. Consider one American creator who has monetized Facebook for years: “With in-stream ads alone, I earned $50,000 to $100,000 monthly, plus bonuses. Facebook changed my life.”
“Stop thinking like consumers and start acting like creators—because creators get paid,” says a young American creator. Stories like his, shared by thousands who profit from viral videos, sponsorships, and commissions on platforms like YouTube and TikTok, illustrate how social media serves as an equalizer. In this space, a single innovative post can often have greater value than a traditional degree.
However, Sierra Leone is lagging behind. While neighboring countries progress, our leaders remain tangled in unfulfilled promises. This article goes beyond technology; it’s about igniting hope and creating opportunities.
“We must channel our frustration into accountability and demand better than mediocrity.” Like many others, this article urges the Sierra Leone government to take immediate action, collaborate with social media companies, and activate monetization features that could spark a digital revolution for young people across the country.
Imagine the potential: a vibrant economy driven by the creative youth of Sierra Leone, amplifying local voices to global audiences and fostering innovation. To realize this vision, the government must fulfill commitments like the “Facebook Monetization” initiative and learn from Africa’s successes and America’s innovations. No young person should be offline and jobless in a hyper-connected world.
The time for change is now, not later. Sierra Leone’s leaders can harness the power of social media to promote economic growth, enhance inclusion, and honor their commitments. Dr. Tarawally’s journey proves that this is possible—let’s transform potential into real progress.