Sierra Leone is accelerating the growth of its tourism sector through strategic, sustainable initiatives aiming to become a premier global destination.
The government of the African country represented by the President Julius Maada Bio on the sideline of the World Governments met UN Tourism Secretary - General Shaikha Almuwais, the first woman to lead the United Nations World Tourism Organization, specialised agency of the United Nations which promotes responsible, sustainable, and universally - accessible tourism, pledging support for the development of the country’s tourism sector.
The meeting focused on cooperation to unlock Sierra Leone’s tourism potential and strengthen the sector’s role in the economy, with the African country already active to promote eco - tourism, its rich cultural heritage, and pristine beaches, driven by the “Tourism for All” campaign, 2026 Year of Culture and Creativity, and improved infrastructures.
Sierra Leone President set out five priorities:
• Sustainable, responsible growth.
• Digital transformation and data – driven tourism.
• Economic inclusion and local empowerment.
• Infrastructure, connectivity and enabling factors.
• Transparency and global trust.
UN Tourism Chief referenced recent engagement with Sierra Leone’s Tourism Minister Nabeela F. Tunis, while President Bio welcomed her election, noted strong UAE - Sierra Leone ties and and affirmed full government backing. UN Tourism Secretary - General signalled plans to visit Sierra Leone in the near future.
Cooperation key highlights and features include:
• Strategic Partnership between Sierra Leone and UN Tourism: The new UN Tourism Secretary - General Ahaikha Almuwais, pledged institutional support to Sierra Leone’s tourism sector in February 2026, focusing on policy alignment and investment to unlock its potential.
• Focus on Sustainability and Culture: Led by Minister Nabeela Tunis, Sierra Leone is focusing on sustainable tourism, with 2026 designated as the “Year of Culture and Creativity,” following previous initiatives like the 2025 Year of Ecotourism.
Sierra Leone Key Tourist Attractions:
• Beaches: Renowned for white sand beaches like River Number Two.
• Eco - Tourism: Diverse, including the Tiwai Island, and chimpanzee sanctuaries, notably Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary.
• Adventure and Heritage: Hiking, surfing, and historical sites like Bunce Island.
Infrastructure and Investment:
Projects: Development includes a new airport terminal, increased regional offices in Bo, Kenema, Makeni, and a completed Cultural Village at Mabala.
Inclusivity:
Initiatives: The country hosted its inaugural Women in Tourism Regional Congress to enhance the role of women in the sector.
These efforts aim to position Sierra Leone as a diverse, untapped destination, for adventure, culture, and relaxation.
No comments:
Post a Comment
Thanks a lot to read and note.