By Ibrahim S. Bangura
Port Loko, Sierra Leone — August 4, 2025: Port Loko District’s entertainment scene is undergoing a powerful transformation with the launch of the Entertainers for Peace and Development (EPAD) initiative — a groundbreaking movement that leverages music, performance, and public engagement to address pressing social challenges in the region.
Formed by a dynamic coalition of renowned and grassroots entertainers, EPAD aims to redefine the role of artistry in Sierra Leonean society by promoting peace, civic education, and community development. The initiative responds to growing concerns over youth unemployment, drug abuse, and political tension in Port Loko, offering a creative and community-driven solution.
Spearheaded by influential figures such as S. M. De Editor, A-Score, DJ Fonz, DJ Father, Romansque, Prezo Bash, and Prezo Sky, EPAD marks a pivotal moment in the district’s cultural evolution. “Entertainment is no longer just about fun—it’s about purpose,” said S. M. De Editor. “We are entertainers, yes, but we are also agents of peace, education, and transformation.”
This collective vision forms the backbone of EPAD’s mission: to create a platform where creativity meets conscience, using the universal language of music and performance to foster unity and drive social progress.
Port Loko, known for its rich cultural heritage, has faced increasing social and economic pressures. EPAD’s formation is a direct response to these challenges, particularly the high rates of youth unemployment and substance abuse that have contributed to unrest and division.
Through music festivals, workshops, and community outreach programs, EPAD seeks to engage young people with messages of civic responsibility, positive values, and economic empowerment. The initiative also aims to bridge divides between communities and local authorities, building on efforts like the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion’s 2024 dialogue, which addressed tensions between police and bike riders following a tragic incident.
EPAD is already gaining momentum, with artists collaborating on projects that amplify messages of peace and development. DJ Fonz and Prezo Sky are leading workshops that equip young artists with skills in music production and entrepreneurship, offering pathways to economic independence. Meanwhile, A-Score and Romansque are organizing community concerts focused on drug abuse prevention, inspired by global models such as the United Nations’ Sport for Development and Peace program.
The EPAD initiative is being hailed as the dawn of a new era in cultural unionism in Sierra Leone. Its emphasis on unity, responsibility, and activism sets it apart, positioning Port Loko’s entertainers as leaders in a national movement for change.
By aligning their creative talents with a commitment to social good, EPAD’s members are not only redefining their roles as artists but also inspiring a generation to use art as a catalyst for progress. As the initiative grows, it promises to transform Port Loko into a beacon of hope — where entertainment becomes a powerful force for peace and development.