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Fostering Creative Potential for Sustainable Development Sierra Leone has taken a major stride forward in harnessing its vibrant creative sector with the official unveiling of the Creative Economy Diagnostic Report.
This milestone underscores the country’s commitment to transforming its creative industries into engines of economic growth, job creation, and cultural pride.
*Aligning with Global Goals*
The report aligns with SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, emphasizing the importance of diversifying Sierra Leone’s economy through creative industries. It highlights opportunities to generate employment, stimulate entrepreneurship, and elevate Sierra Leone’s cultural influence on the global stage.
*Event Highlights and Celebrations*
The launch took place on Monday, September 8, 2025, at the Creative Hub Africa on Lumley Road, Freetown, supported by the World Bank Group under the Sierra Leone Economic Diversification Project (SLEDP) and the European Union. The two-day celebration featured dynamic activities including high-level policy discussions, a creator showcase, live art jams, and performances by renowned Sierra Leonean talents.
Led by the World Bank Group, the report was prepared with valuable insights from Senior Private Sector Development Specialists Louise Twining-Ward and Alari Hasanatu Ijileyoh Mahdi, alongside consultant Alex Pio. The leadership team also included notable figures such as Mario Guadamillas (Practice Manager, Competitiveness), Mehnaz Safavian (Practice Manager, FCI Africa West & Central), Abdu Muwonge (Sierra Leone Country Manager), and Elena Babkova (Program Manager, F4D).
*A Deep Dive into Sierra Leone’s Creative Economy*
The report presents a comprehensive analysis of Sierra Leone’s creative industries within the global context, spotlighting the sector’s economic influence and growth potential. It offers insights into opportunities, challenges, and pathways for transformation — including a detailed value chain assessment of the music industry.
*Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs’ Vision*
Delivering the keynote, Minister Nabeela Tunis emphasized the sector’s vital role in national development. She stated:
“The creative industry is now part of Sierra Leone’s development blueprint. It boosts community engagement, enhances capacity building, and supports tourism.”
While recognizing progress, she pointed out that the sector remains underutilized:
“Globally, creative industries contribute about 3.1% of GDP and sustain 50 million jobs. For Sierra Leone, the sector accounts for roughly 4.5% of GDP and 10% of employment — yet we can do much more.”
She called for strategic partnerships and increased investments, urging all government agencies to “put their hands on deck” for sector growth. She also highlighted the sector’s role in fostering social cohesion and environmental sustainability.
World Bank’s Support and Insights
Abdu Muwonge, the World Bank’s Sierra Leone Country Manager, praised local artists and highlighted the importance of formalizing creative activities to boost economic contributions. He encouraged Sierra Leonean youth and parents to see creative careers as viable and rewarding paths, citing Nigeria’s success as an example.
“Let’s harness our youthful energy and entrepreneurial spirit,” Muwonge urged. “Support our children in creative pursuits — success isn’t only in academics.”
*Innovative Programs Boosting the Sector*
Isatu Harrisson from Creative Hub Africa showcased the Creative Accelerator Pilot Program, Sierra Leone’s first of its kind. Supported by the World Bank and SLEDP, it attracted 120 applicants, selecting 25 women-led businesses. The program delivered six months of training in entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and digital skills, resulting in:
Creation of 30 direct jobs and 35 indirect jobs
An exchange visit to Lagos, Nigeria, for five participants
*Digital Growth and Challenges*
Consultant Olivia Fava-Verde reported impressive improvements in online presence, with social media engagement jumping from 54% to 81%. However, she highlighted critical barriers:
Limited access to finance (91% of creatives cite this as their main challenge) Weak intellectual property protections, Insufficient infrastructure and formalization.
She stressed that strengthening these areas is essential for the sector’s sustainability and growth.
*A Bright Future for Sierra Leone’s Creative Economy*
This landmark event marks a turning point in Sierra Leone’s journey to unlock the full potential of its creative industries. With strategic partnerships, supportive policies, and increased investment, the creative economy is poised to become a vital contributor to the nation’s sustainable development, cultural vibrancy, and social cohesion.
Together, Sierra Leone is shaping a future where creativity fuels progress.
The idea is beautiful and the implementation and monitoring is my concern, now that the teachers are yet having holidays because of plenty issues that the slpp government is unable to settle, when will the severance benefits payment for lectures be available or is the government waiting to witness another strick by lectures? Because that is the only action slpp government understand, shame on you and your……..