The Ministry of Youth Affairs in Sierra Leone, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has officially opened applications for the “Sierra Ride” Electric Vehicle Initiative 2026, a pilot programme designed to modernize the country’s commercial transport sector while creating new economic opportunities for young drivers.
This innovative project introduces electric vehicles (EVs) into Sierra Leone’s transport system to reduce carbon emissions, improve urban mobility, and promote green jobs for youth across the country.
About the Sierra Ride Initiative
The Sierra Ride Initiative is part of Sierra Leone’s broader national strategy to transform urban transportation through sustainable and climate-friendly mobility solutions.
The programme aims to replace traditional fuel-powered commercial vehicles—especially the widely used three-wheelers known locally as kekes—with environmentally friendly electric alternatives.
Traditional kekes consume significant amounts of gasoline and contribute heavily to urban air pollution. By transitioning to electric vehicles, Sierra Leone hopes to:
- Reduce greenhouse gas emissions
- Improve urban air quality
- Lower transport operating costs
- Promote road safety
- Support climate-smart innovation
- Create sustainable youth employment opportunities
The initiative is co-financed and implemented by the Government of Sierra Leone with support from:
- United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
- United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
- Global Environment Facility (GEF)
- European Union through the SOLUTIONSPlus Project
- Local transport and environmental stakeholders
Who Can Apply?
The programme is specifically targeting young Sierra Leoneans aged 21 to 35 years who are interested in becoming part of the country’s growing green transport sector.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Must be between 21 and 35 years old
- Have at least 3 years of driving experience
- Possess a valid driver’s licence
- Have a clean driving record
- Must have completed Senior Secondary Education
- Provide a Police Clearance Certificate
- Show willingness to undergo training on electric vehicle technology
Special Inclusion Priority
The Ministry of Youth Affairs strongly encourages applications from:
- Women
- Persons with disabilities
This aligns with the government’s commitment to promoting gender equality and inclusive economic empowerment in the transport industry.
Why Sierra Ride Matters
During the 2025 International Youth Day celebrations, Minister of Youth Affairs Ibrahim Sannoh announced a youth empowerment package that included the rollout of 50 electric vehicles, with special priority for women drivers.
The minister emphasized that promoting climate technology, innovation, and electric mobility is a major national priority.
This initiative also builds on UNDP’s recent efforts to empower young women with technical and vocational skills. Earlier in 2026, UNDP partnered with NAYCOM and AFTEC to certify 250 young women in fields such as:
- Auto mechanics
- Renewable energy systems
- Technical vocational skills
The Sierra Ride project now creates a direct pathway for young people—especially women—to apply these skills in real-world income-generating opportunities.
Benefits of the Programme
Selected participants will benefit from:
- Access to electric commercial vehicles
- Training on electric vehicle operations and maintenance
- Entry into the growing green transport economy
- Reduced fuel and operating costs
- Opportunities for sustainable income generation
- Participation in Sierra Leone’s climate-smart mobility transition
How to Apply
Interested applicants should submit the following documents:
- Updated CV
- Cover Letter
- Copy of Driver’s Licence
Submission Options
Applications can be submitted via:
Physical Submission
Ministry of Youth Affairs
24 Scan Drive
Wilberforce, Freetown
Sierra Leone
Application Deadline
Deadline: 8th May 2026
Applicants are encouraged to apply early to avoid last-minute delays.
Visit Here, for more details.
The Sierra Ride Electric Vehicle Initiative 2026 offers more than just a driving opportunity—it is a gateway into Sierra Leone’s green economy and a bold step toward sustainable urban transportation.
For young drivers seeking employment, empowerment, and the chance to be part of a climate-friendly future, this programme is an excellent opportunity to accelerate both career growth and national development.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, this is the perfect time to take the wheel and drive toward a greener future.
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