Stakeholders and residents of Bureh Town have unanimously agreed to implement a private sector management model for the tourism and leisure facilities currently under development at Bureh Beach.

This decision was reached during a meeting organized by the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, in collaboration with the Project Coordinating Unit (PCU) of the Sierra Leone Economic Diversification Project (SLEDP).

The SLEDP aims to boost Sierra Leone’s tourism sector by enhancing key locations such as Bureh Beach, Leicester Peak, and Tacugama. At Bureh Beach, development efforts include a beach boardwalk, market stalls, a surf club, a restaurant, a jetty, public showers, green parking areas, and improved access roads.

Prince Gaima, Tourism Specialist for the SLEDP, highlighted the meeting’s purpose, which was to involve the Bureh community in selecting a management model for the new facilities. The community had previously suggested private sector management, a recommendation that was reaffirmed and supported during the meeting.

Mohamed Jalloh, Director of the Tourism, Travel, and Exchange Programme, emphasized the economic potential of the new facilities, which are expected to create local jobs and improve livelihoods in Bureh Town. He noted that the government’s goal is to transform Bureh Beach into a premier tourist destination, contributing to the national economy and enhancing the well-being of the local community.

After extensive discussions, the community, represented by Pa Tucker, the delegate of the Head-woman, agreed to a five-year private sector management contract. Following this period, the community will take over management, equipped with the necessary experience to run the facilities independently.