CategoriesNews Tourism Tours Travel By Sierra Leone National Tourist Board

Sierra Leone to Participate in 68th UN Tourism Regional Commission for Africa Thematic Conference in Nigeria

UN Tourism

Sierra Leone to Participate in 68th UN Tourism Regional Commission for Africa Thematic Conference in Nigeria

 

Abuja, Nigeria — June 11, 2025 — Sierra Leone’s Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Nabeela Farida Tunis, along with her technical team, has arrived in Abuja to attend the prestigious 68th Meeting of the UN Tourism Regional Commission for Africa (CAF) Thematic Conference, taking place from June 11 to June 13 at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel.

 

This year’s theme, “Boosting Social Impact and Education in Tourism via Innovation, AI, and Creative Industries,” underscores the conference’s focus on leveraging cutting-edge technological advancements to foster sustainable development and social impact within the tourism sector across Africa.

 

Minister Tunis expressed her enthusiasm about the gathering, emphasizing its significance in shaping the future of tourism management and transformation in the continent. She highlighted Sierra Leone’s dedication to embracing innovation and creativity as vital tools for advancing its tourism industry and creating more inclusive economic opportunities.

 

The conference will convene representatives from UN Tourism Member States, Affiliate Members, and a broad spectrum of stakeholders from the public and private sectors. Discussions will center on strategies to harness modern technology—particularly artificial intelligence and creative industries—to elevate social impact and educational initiatives within tourism.

 

Stay tuned for comprehensive updates from the conference as Sierra Leone continues to showcase its commitment to innovative tourism development.

 

NTB Communications and Public Relations

CategoriesDiscover Explore Tourism Tours Travel By Sierra Leone National Tourist Board

Sierra Leone host Kurt Lalin and Yolanda Saayman from G-adventures

Saturday 7th June, Freetown- The Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs; Mrs. Nabeela Farida Tunis, the General Manager-NTB- Mrs. Fatmata Mida Carew and Visit Sierra Leone hang heads with Kurt Lalin, Contracting Specialist for Africa, and Yolanda Saayman, Product Manager for Africa from G- Adventures Inc. of Canada which operates as an adventure travel company with specialized offers in group tours, safari, and expeditions.

Sierra Leone, a jewel in West Africa, is rapidly emerging as a vibrant destination for eco-tourism, cultural exploration, and authentic adventure experiences. With its rich history, diverse landscapes, and warm-hearted people, Sierra Leone offers a unique platform for sustainable tourism development. As we look ahead, the vision is clear: to create compelling, responsible travel experiences that resonate with global demands while empowering local communities.

Since 2019, G Adventures has been in dialogue with Sierra Leone, driven by a shared commitment to ecotourism and community development. The focus is on creating adventure packages for travelers aged 18-30, emphasizing immersive experiences, cultural engagement, and environmental sustainability—all packaged within a four-star product framework.

Welcoming the team at the Hub hotel, minister Tunis permeates thoroughly on developments undertaken so far within the tourism sector, with the focus on working with communities using the public and private partnership business model, she underscored with this approach, community stakeholders could understand and appreciate the efforts of government, the ministry and the board’s vision with every project been introduced. The honorable minister madam Tunis highlighted, with the type of business approach and tourism product that best defined G- Adventures is Tiwai Island a sanctuary for biodiversity, home to rare primates and lush forests, with acceptable community people.

GM-NTB, also reiterates that authentic cultural experience, is captured from Kambama village, wherein the community offers traditional dance, craft, and community storytelling. Integrating these activities into adventure packages provides travelers with meaningful engagement and supports local artisans.

Kurt said “Our approach aims to blend adventure travel with social impact, ensuring that tourism benefits the communities it touches. The goal is to develop mixed products that reflect Sierra Leone’s core strengths: its natural beauty, vibrant culture, and resilient people”.

 

Yolanda from G-Adventures empowering women and girls in communities is central core for G-Adventures with a clear trajectory in Women-led initiatives in crafts, hospitality, and conservation are vital for community upliftment. Promoting women entrepreneurs and equipping them with skills can foster inclusive growth and serve as ambassadors of Sierra Leone’s vibrant culture. Sustainable tourism must prioritize public engagement, with clear signage, community-led tours, and local participation. Visitors should leave not just with memories but with a genuine understanding of Sierra Leone’s social fabric, and that G-Adventure is here to understand that dynamics.

Fatmata Carew, in her continuity shed more lights on Sierra Leone’s strengths, which s lies in its natural landscapes, cultural richness, and community resilience. By weaving these elements into cohesive, engaging products, Sierra Leone can position itself as a top eco-adventure destination in West Africa. Furthermore; the creative arts—dance, music, and crafts—are integral to the cultural experience. These linkages enhance the storytelling aspect, making each journey meaningful and memorable, to these special classes of adventurers.

Kurt in his closure pinned point for Sierra Leone to develop a range of packages from 3 to 7 days, blending adventure, culture, and relaxation. Considering eco-friendly credentials that will appeal to a broader audience. Ensure local communities are involved in product design and delivery, fostering ownership and sustainability. Increase public engagement through well-placed signage, digital storytelling, and ambassador programs featuring local guides. Invest in training local guides, artisans, and hospitality staff to meet international standards. Five-Year Development Plan- Outline a strategic roadmap for nature-based tourism, with clear milestones, pilot projects, and evaluation metrics.

Each West African country should leverage its core products—be it beaches, wildlife, or cultural heritage—and tailor experiences to attract responsible travelers. Sierra Leone’s unique offerings, from its pristine islands to its lively markets, can be woven into a cohesive regional narrative.

The general manager thanked the team for coming to have a first-hand information, as Sierra Leone stands at a pivotal moment. With strategic planning, community engagement, and a focus on sustainability, it can become a leading eco-adventure destination. By offering authentic experiences that respect nature and culture, Sierra Leone can meet global demands and foster lasting benefits for its people. As we move forward, the collaboration between G Adventures and Sierra Leone’s stakeholders promises a future where adventure tourism is a catalyst for positive change—one journey at a time. Thanking Visiting Sierra Leone serving as the Tour Operator and Abdulai Sankoh tour guide for the seven day familiarization trip.

CategoriesNews Tourism By Sierra Leone National Tourist Board

Celebrating World Environment Day- Lumley Beach Beautification project kick-starts with a symbolic 700 tree planting exercise.

Lumley Beach, Sierra Leone — June 6, 2025 — In a bold move to enhance the scenic beauty and promote environmental sustainability, the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, in collaboration with the National Tourism Board, has launched a significant beautification project at Lumley Beach.

Central to this initiative is a comprehensive 700-tree planting exercise aimed at transforming the iconic coastal area into a greener, more sustainable destination.

 

Mr. Bashiru Koroma, thanking the General Manager for believing the initiative and supporting the tree planting exercise. This exercise will bring resilience and vibrancy to Lumley Beach through the planting of assorted trees, which including Coconut trees, Almond trees, Palm trees, and Christmas trees. Mr. Koroma emphasized that these species have been meticulously selected for their proven durability and adaptability over time. “Tree planting should not be a one-time event but a continuous process that sustains and enriches our environment,” he stated, highlighting the importance of ongoing community involvement and engagement to secure security of the Green Space at Lumley.

World Environment Day

In her keynote address, the General Manager of the National Tourism Board, Mrs. Fatmata M. Carew echoed the Ministry’s and Board’s commitment to maintaining the beauty and safety of Lumley Beach. Standing in for the Honorable Minister, she urged community stakeholders and beach users to act as custodians of this green initiative. “Lumley Beach is one of our most iconic spots, and its preservation depends on collective responsibility,” she remarked.

 

Mrs. Carew also provided updates on upcoming developments, including the construction of modern beach toilet facilities and a public gym, designed to improve visitor experience. She appealed to the community to manage the beach with care, emphasizing sustainable practices to combat environmental challenges such as plastic debris and pollution from neighboring coastal communities. She emphasized that addressing waste management is crucial, as the ongoing plastic pollution hampers the beach’s aesthetic appeal and ecological health.

World Environment Day

The General Manager highlighted the environmental threats posed by plastic pollution and the invasive seaweed Sargassum, which have become pressing issues for coastal communities. Notably, 2025 has been declared the “Year of Ecotourism” by the Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, emphasizing eco-friendly tourism practices as a national priority.

World Environment Day

Mr. Umaru Woody, Planning and Product Development Manager, aligned the tree-planting effort with the global theme of World Environment Day 2025: “Beating Plastic Pollution.” He stressed that plastic pollution infiltrates every corner of the planet, even micro-plastics found in our bodies, urging collective action to reduce plastic waste. “Tree planting is a sustainable way to combat environmental degradation, and this initiative by the Ministry and the Board is a step in the right direction,” he affirmed.

World Environment Day

Madam Lucinda Kargbo, Marketing Manager, underscored the importance of environmental stewardship in marketing and tourism. She called on everyone—local residents, beach visitors, and stakeholders—to play their part in keeping Lumley Beach clean and safe.

World Environment Day

 

The symbolic tree-planting ceremony was carried out by prominent figures, including Deputy Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs Madam Kadijatu Grace Kamara, General Manager Mrs. Fatmata Mida Carew, Deputy Director of Tourism Mr. Idrisa T. Bangura, and other key stakeholders including Environmental Protection Agency, reaffirming the collective commitment to this green transformation.

Lumley Beach’s beautification initiative symbolizes a proactive approach to environmental conservation and sustainable tourism development in Sierra Leone. As the nation celebrates the Year of Ecotourism, this project serves as a reminder that preserving natural resources requires continuous effort, community participation, and responsible stewardship. With these efforts, Lumley Beach is set to become a shining example of eco-friendly tourism, attracting visitors while safeguarding its natural beauty for generations to come.

World Environment Day

For more updates on Sierra Leone’s tourism and environmental initiatives follow:

www.tourismsierraleone.com/ ntb.gov.sl

+23277347910

CategoriesHospitality By Sierra Leone National Tourist Board

Sierra Leonean Chef Niematulai DiGrazia Makes Culinary History on International Stage

The National Tourist Board of Sierra Leone proudly congratulates our very own Chef Niematulai DiGrazia on her remarkable victory on the acclaimed American television show, Beat Bobby Flay.

Chef Niematulai’s impressive win against world-renowned celebrity chef Bobby Flay is more than just a personal triumph — it is a powerful representation of Sierra Leone’s rich culinary heritage and rising global influence in gastronomy.

Through her creativity, expertise, and passion, Chef Niematulai brought a taste of Sierra Leone to the international spotlight, showcasing the unique flavors and vibrant food culture that make our nation a true hidden gem for culinary tourism.

Her victory serves as an inspiration to aspiring chefs across the country and strengthens our vision of promoting Sierra Leone as a top destination for culture, cuisine, and creativity.

Once again, congratulations to Chef Niematulai DiGrazia — your success is a national pride!

Come discover the taste of Sierra Leone.

CategoriesTourism Tours Travel By Sierra Leone National Tourist Board

𝘼𝙨𝙘𝙚𝙣𝙙 𝘼𝙞𝙧𝙬𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝙡𝙖𝙪𝙣𝙘𝙝𝙚𝙙 𝙛𝙡𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨 𝙗𝙚𝙩𝙬𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙇𝙤𝙣𝙙𝙤𝙣 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙎𝙞𝙚𝙧𝙧𝙖 𝙇𝙚𝙤𝙣𝙚

The airline, a subsidiary airline of Dublin-based Avia Solutions Group which launched in April 2024, will operate three weekly services between London Gatwick and Freetown International Airport on behalf of Air Sierra Leone from 16 June. The first flights took place on 26 and 27 April, coinciding with Sierra Leone’s Independence Day.
Alastair Willson, CEO of Ascend Airways, said, “It is a true honour to have operated the historic London Gatwick to Freetown flight on behalf of Air Sierra Leone. It took months of hard work to set this connection up, and we are looking forward to operating this much-needed route during the summer and winter season.”
Ascend Airways also operates routes on behalf of TUI Airways, with plans to expand with a Malaysian sister carrier.
Wondering what to do in Sierra Leone? You can discover the country’s slave trade history – and later its role as a settlement for freed slaves – in the capital Freetown at sites including Bunce Island, home to the remains of Sierra Leone’s largest slave fort, and the Old Wharf Steps, known as the ‘Freedom steps’, as the first place freed slaves would walk when arriving.
Outside of the city, you can book in of a tour of the 100-acre Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary, which has been working with rescued chimps since 1988, or pay a visit to Tiwai Island, which is home to one of the richest populations of pygmy hippopotami as well as 11 resident primate species.
Other highlights include Gola Forest Reserve, which is home to 49 mammal species, 327 bird species, and more than 200 species of tree.
CategoriesHospitality By Sierra Leone National Tourist Board

𝙉𝙏𝘽-𝙂𝙈 𝙁𝙖𝙩𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙖 𝙈𝙞𝙙𝙖 𝘾𝙖𝙧𝙚𝙬 𝘾𝙚𝙡𝙚𝙗𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙨 𝙎𝙞𝙚𝙧𝙧𝙖 𝙇𝙚𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙖𝙣 𝘾𝙪𝙞𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙚 𝙖𝙩 𝘾𝙤𝙡𝙚 𝙎𝙩𝙧𝙚𝙚𝙩 𝙂𝙪𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙃𝙤𝙪𝙨𝙚 𝙋𝙤𝙥-𝙪𝙥 𝙀𝙫𝙚𝙣𝙩.

Freetown — In a vibrant showcase of Sierra Leonean culinary artistry, Fatmata Mida Carew, General Manager of the National Tourist Board (NTB), recently attended a dynamic pop-up event at Cole Street Guest House. Organized by proprietor Chef Miatta Marke, the event aimed to spotlight the rich flavors and cultural heritage embedded in Sierra Leonean cuisine, as part of preparations for the upcoming 3rd Edition UN Tourism Gastronomy for Africa Conference scheduled for 2026 in Freetown. Fatmata Carew enticed with local serving cutlery designed with wood and pan which represents a true Sierra Leonean setting and style.
The event brought together key officials from Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, the National Tourist Board, and the Monument and Relics Commission, all led by Minister Nabeela Tunis. Their purpose was clear: to sample and celebrate the diverse, authentic flavors that define Sierra Leonean food culture, while also emphasizing the nutritional and health benefits of these traditional delicacies.


The menu was an impressive array of local favorites, thoughtfully prepared and presented using international culinary techniques. Highlights included Acaraje, Huntu, Ros Bif, Kontri Fol Croquettes, Fry Cassada, and Jerk Goat—an age-old recipe with a history spanning over 150 years. The meal was rounded out with a delectable dessert, offering guests a taste of Sierra Leone’s rich culinary tapestry.
Minister Nabeela Tunis expressed her admiration for Miatta Marke’s culinary ingenuity, praising her ability to blend diverse ingredients while maintaining the authentic essence of Sierra Leonean recipes. “Miatta’s dedication to preserving our cultural heritage through food is commendable,” she remarked. “Her creative approach not only showcases our unique flavors but also highlights the talents of Sierra Leonean chefs in the international culinary arena.”
Supporting her sentiments, Permanent Secretary Edward Kwame Yankson, Director of Tourism Mohamed Jalloh, NTB General Manager Fatmata Mida Carew, and Monument and Relics Commission Administrative Manager Ann-Marie Kamara all savored the dishes, praising the delicious flavors and presentation.


Beyond her role as a hospitality professional, Miatta Marke is a passionate foodie with a keen interest in international cuisines. Her culinary ethos at Cole Street Guest House revolves around presenting Sierra Leone’s flavors through the lens of classic global techniques, utilizing fresh, locally sourced, and personally cultivated ingredients. The event also featured a variety of local drinks, including lemongrass juice, cucumber juice, hibiscus juice, and Salone apple juice, which complemented the meal perfectly.
As Sierra Leone prepares to host the prestigious UN Tourism Gastronomy for Africa conference, events like this pop-up serve as vital platforms to elevate the country’s culinary identity. They showcase the depth of local talent and the potential of Sierra Leone’s food culture to attract international tourists and food enthusiasts alike.
With a vibrant food scene grounded in tradition yet open to innovation, Sierra Leone is poised to make a mark on the global culinary stage. The efforts of passionate individuals like Miatta Marke and the support of government officials reinforce the nation’s commitment to celebrating and preserving its rich cultural heritage through food.
In conclusion, the pop-up event at Cole Street Guest House not only highlighted Sierra Leonean delicacies but also celebrated the creativity, resilience, and cultural pride of Sierra Leone’s culinary community. As the country readies itself for a major international event, such initiatives will undoubtedly help position Sierra Leone as a must-visit destination for gastronomic explorers worldwide.

CategoriesHospitality By Sierra Leone National Tourist Board

𝙐𝙉𝙏𝙊𝙐𝙍𝙄𝙎𝙈 𝙎𝙀𝘾𝙍𝙀𝙏𝘼𝙍𝙄𝘼𝙏 𝙊𝙁𝙁𝙄𝘾𝙄𝘼𝙇𝙇𝙔 𝘼𝙉𝙉𝙊𝙐𝙉𝘾𝙀𝘿 𝙎𝙄𝙀𝙍𝙍𝘼 𝙇𝙀𝙊𝙉𝙀 𝘼𝙎 𝙃𝙊𝙎𝙏 𝘾𝙊𝙐𝙉𝙏𝙍𝙔 𝙁𝙊𝙍 𝙏𝙃𝙀 2026 𝙐𝙉𝙏𝙊𝙐𝙍𝙄𝙎𝙈 𝙂𝘼𝙎𝙏𝙍𝙊𝙉𝙊𝙈𝙔 𝙁𝙊𝙍 𝘼𝙁𝙍𝙄𝘾𝘼.

The second day of the “UNTourism on Gastronomy for Africa” conference marked a pivotal step toward transforming the continent into a renowned global culinary destination. Gathering representatives from 30 countries, with over 200 active participants and a digital audience of 600, the session offered a comprehensive platform to strategize on elevating African gastronomy. The discussions underscored a collective recognition that Africa’s rich culinary heritage, if harnessed effectively, can become a powerful driver of tourism, economic development, and cultural preservation.
The session emphasized the need for an integrated, multi-sectoral strategy encompassing policy, education, community engagement, innovation, and marketing. Central to this was the understanding that Africa’s diverse culinary traditions are a treasure trove waiting to be showcased globally through authentic storytelling, strategic branding, and innovative product development.
Developing a cohesive national gastronomy strategy is paramount. Countries must craft compelling narratives that highlight their unique culinary identities rooted in cultural heritage and sustainability. Building a strong international brand involves consistent storytelling that elevates Africa’s culinary diversity, fostering recognition and pride at home and abroad.
To nurture local talent, educational curricula need reform to incorporate modern and sustainable gastronomy practices. Specialized courses focusing on food culture, nutrition, and culinary arts tailored to local contexts are vital. Additionally, expanding scholarship opportunities and practical training will bridge skills gaps and develop a new generation of chefs and industry professionals equipped to innovate and lead.
Encouraging creativity and diversity in culinary offerings is crucial. Promoting sustainable sourcing of local ingredients not only ensures authenticity but also supports local economies. Leveraging new technologies, including AI, can enhance efficiency, creativity, and yield management—setting Africa apart as an innovator in gastronomy.
Inclusion of women and marginalized groups in culinary entrepreneurship fosters equity and broadens the industry’s scope. Showcasing indigenous food practices through festivals, media, and digital platforms helps preserve cultural heritage while raising awareness among locals and tourists alike.
Digital platforms—social media, storytelling, and online marketing—are vital tools for reaching global audiences. Establishing networks for best practices, research, and collaboration will foster continuous growth. Strong partnerships between governments, private sector, and academia are essential for sustainable progress.
The session acknowledged significant hurdles, including mindset barriers, limited funding, capacity gaps, and policy implementation challenges. Overcoming these requires a multifaceted approach:
Promoting stakeholder inclusivity and cross-sector collaboration.
Strengthening policy implementation and ensuring sustainable funding.
Accelerating digital transformation, particularly AI integration.
Aligning practices with Sustainable Development Goal 12.3 (responsible consumption and production) to promote sustainability.
Prioritize skills development through research, curriculum reform, and practical training.
Recognize and promote African culinary identity via local products and chefs.
Embed gastronomy as a strategic sector within government policies.
Empower women and marginalized groups through capacity-building and recognition.
Foster innovation and sustainability in food practices aligned with SDGs.
Africa stands on the brink of becoming a global culinary hub. Achieving this vision mandates strategic planning, multi-stakeholder collaboration, and embracing technological advancements. Emphasizing community involvement, cultural preservation, and sustainability will be essential in positioning African cuisine on the world stage.

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CategoriesTourism By Sierra Leone National Tourist Board

𝙎𝙩𝙧𝙚𝙣𝙜𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙇𝙖𝙣𝙙-𝘽𝙖𝙨𝙚𝙙 𝙏𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙢 𝘿𝙖𝙩𝙖 𝘾𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙚𝙘𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙞𝙣 𝙎𝙞𝙚𝙧𝙧𝙖 𝙇𝙚𝙤𝙣𝙚.

T𝙝𝙚 𝙉𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙡 𝙏𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙩 𝘽𝙤𝙖𝙧𝙙 (𝙉𝙏𝘽), 𝙞𝙣 𝙘𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙈𝙞𝙣𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙮 𝙤𝙛 𝙏𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙢 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝘾𝙪𝙡𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙖𝙡 𝘼𝙛𝙛𝙖𝙞𝙧𝙨 (𝙈𝙏𝘾𝘼), 𝙨𝙪𝙘𝙘𝙚𝙨𝙨𝙛𝙪𝙡𝙡𝙮 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙙𝙪𝙘𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙖 𝙛𝙤𝙪𝙧-𝙙𝙖𝙮 𝙚𝙣𝙜𝙖𝙜𝙚𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙢𝙖 (𝙇𝙞𝙗𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙖 𝙗𝙤𝙧𝙙𝙚𝙧) 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙂𝙗𝙖𝙡𝙖𝙢𝙪𝙮𝙖 (𝙂𝙪𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙖 𝙗𝙤𝙧𝙙𝙚𝙧) 𝙘𝙧𝙤𝙨𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙥𝙤𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙨.
This initiative seeks to formalize the collection of tourist arrival data via land borders, a process that has historically been insufficiently documented. Immigration teams at both locations warmly welcomed the engagement and expressed robust support for the initiative.
– Introduction of standardized forms to capture tourist data.
– Orientation sessions with border officers on identifying and profiling tourist travelers.
– Agreement for quarterly visits by NTB to collect and validate data.
– Collaboration led by Ibrahim Kamara (NTB), supported by Fatu Stella Pratt, Samuel Katta, and Mr. Alieu Badara from MTCA.
– Immigration Department leads: Mr. Joseph Amara (Jendema) and Mr. Abubakarr Kamara (Gbalamuya).
The NTB and MTCA extend sincere appreciation to the Immigration Department for their past and ongoing support in providing data. This cooperation is vital for establishing a reliable, evidence-based tourism system.
– Manual data collection will commence this month.
– The NTB will return quarterly to retrieve records, provide support, and continue training.
– A long-term digital data solution is currently under development.
This initiative represents a substantial advancement in enhancing Sierra Leone’s tourism intelligence system, promoting strategic growth, and ensuring more informed policy decisions.