By Alimatu Jalloh
Bintumani Hotel, Freetown – May 15, 2025 – The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs (MTCA) has unveiled three newly developed touristic sites, emphasizing their commercial potential and strategic importance to the country’s economic diversification. The sites—Leicester Peak Viewing Deck, Tacugama Innovation Centre, and Bureh Beach Surf Club and Jetty—were developed under the World Bank Sierra Leone Economic Diversification Project (SLEDP).
The information session, held in Freetown, attracted government officials, international investors, and private sector stakeholders, who were invited to explore investment opportunities in tourism infrastructure.
Tourism Development & Investment Opportunities
The primary goal of these sites is to enhance visitor experiences, offering facilities tailored for adventure, relaxation, cultural enrichment, education, and eco-tourism.
Senior Permanent Secretary Edward Kwame Yankson, chairing the event, underscored the government’s commitment to revitalizing the sector through strategic partnerships. He urged private-sector players to contribute ideas and resources to ensure long-term sustainability.
Minister of Finance Sheku Fantamadi Bangura praised the initiative, describing it as a key driver for economic growth and job creation. He applauded Minister Nabeela Tunis for her leadership in boosting tourism figures and pledged continued government support for sector expansion.
In her keynote address, Minister Tunis highlighted the importance of private sector engagement, calling it a strategic imperative for long-term success. She noted that recent community consultations revealed strong support for private operators managing the sites while the government provides oversight.
“This tripartite model—engaging the public sector, private sector, and host communities—offers the most effective path for sustainability, accountability, and local ownership,” she stated.
Positioning Sierra Leone as an Ecotourism Destination
The initiative aligns with the Year of Ecotourism 2025, which aims to protect and expand Sierra Leone’s natural and cultural assets, ultimately positioning the country as a premier ecotourism destination.
Director of Tourism Mohamed Jalloh presented detailed information on the facilities and resources available at each site, alongside a documentary showcasing investment prospects.
Audience members sought clarifications regarding the management of the sites, with sector professionals providing swift responses.
The unveiling of these tourism projects is expected to drive investment and attract more international visitors, supporting Sierra Leone’s broader economic diversification strategy.