The National Tourist Board of Sierra Leone has congratulated six newly appointed members who will serve on the Board in accordance with the provisions of the 1991 Tourism Development Act.
The appointments are expected to strengthen the Board’s strategic leadership, oversight, and accountability as Sierra Leone continues to promote tourism as a key driver of employment, investment, national revenue and sustainable development.
The newly appointed members are:
- Mr. Abdul Karim Jalloh of Estuary Resort
- Mr. John H. Shallop of Country Lodge Hotel
- Mr. Mambu Yarjah
- Madam Hagar Olu Jones
- Madam Josephine Mariama Massaquoi of Galiness Hotel, Bo
- Madam Sarah Thomas Kamara
The new members will work alongside the Chairman of the National Tourist Board, Mr. Tamba Alieu Kokobaye (COR), and the Board’s management to advance the institution’s mandate and provide renewed strategic direction.
The appointments come as the National Tourist Board marks 35 years of service to the country and at a time when Sierra Leone’s tourism and hospitality industry requires stronger coordination, improved standards and increased investment. The appointees bring experience from various areas of the sector, including hotel management and tourism enterprise development.
Two of the appointees, Mr. Mambu Yarjah and Madam Hagar Olu Jones, are returning members of the Board, having previously served in similar capacities. Their experience is expected to complement the contributions of the other newly appointed members.
As the governing body of the National Tourist Board, the members are expected to carry out their responsibilities collectively and in accordance with the Tourism Act, relevant regulations, government policies and the Board’s approved procedures.
Their primary responsibility will be to set the strategic direction of the National Tourist Board and ensure that its activities support Sierra Leone’s broader national development priorities.
Tourism continues to present significant opportunities for job creation, private-sector investment, local enterprise development and increased national revenue. Effective leadership and oversight will therefore be essential to building a competitive, inclusive and sustainable tourism sector.
A major responsibility of the Board will be to oversee the regulation of tourism businesses and facilities across the country. These include:
- Hotels and guest houses
- Restaurants and nightclubs
- Casinos
- Travel agencies
- Tour operators
- Tourism-handling and ground-handling agencies
- Other establishments designated under relevant laws and regulations
Through effective oversight, the Board is expected to promote compliance, improve service quality and strengthen professionalism across the tourism and hospitality industry. Strong regulation will also help protect visitors, build consumer confidence and enhance Sierra Leone’s reputation as a tourism destination.
The newly appointed members are expected to work closely with management, industry stakeholders and government partners to address challenges facing the sector and identify new opportunities for growth.
Their tenure will be guided by the principles of transparency, accountability, collaboration and sound decision-making. By working collectively, the Board can provide clearer direction for the National Tourist Board and strengthen its contribution to Sierra Leone’s long-term development.
The National Tourist Board has expressed confidence that the combined experience and commitment of the newly appointed members will contribute to the continued growth of tourism and hospitality in Sierra Leone.
