The Class of 2003 from the Prince of Wales School in Freetown has made an official request for police clearance to include a live lion in their centenary anniversary March Past ceremony.

The march, scheduled for Sunday, 6th April 2025, will take place between Kissy Road and Kingtom in Freetown, following a thanksgiving service at Holy Trinity Church.

In a formal letter addressed to the Inspector General of Police, the group explains that the inclusion of the lion in the procession is symbolic, representing the school’s emblem the lion  which has stood as a testament to the school’s remarkable achievements over the years. The procession is set to take place from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm on the day of the event.

To ensure the safety and control of the lion, which will be flown in from the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya, four professional lion tamers will accompany the animal during the procession. The group has made it clear that all arrangements, including but not limited to the transportation of the lion to Sierra Leone, have been carefully planned, with the lion expected to arrive on Thursday, 3rd April.

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In their letter, the Class of 2003 has assured the Inspector General of Police of their full compliance with the Public Order Act of 1965 and the Road Traffic Regulations of 2007, ensuring public safety during the procession.

As the Prince of Wales School marks this century of excellence, the inclusion of a live lion in the event promises to be a historic moment for the school community, drawing attention to the longstanding legacy of one of Sierra Leone’s most prestigious institutions.

The request is still pending approval, and the Class of 2003 eagerly awaits a timely response to ensure that the procession goes ahead as planned. The community is already buzzing with anticipation, and it looks set to be an unforgettable moment in the school’s centenary celebrations.