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The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs (MTCA), in partnership with its agencies and with support from the Sierra Leone Economic Diversification Project (SLEDP), has launched a nationwide Nature and Digital-Based Ecotourism Education Program, kicking off in Kailahun District as the first of eight beneficiary districts.
Running from 22 September to 11 October 2025, the initiative is designed to equip host communities with practical skills to identify, map, and package ecotourism opportunities while leveraging digital tools to promote sustainable destination marketing.
Speaking on behalf of Paramount Chief Sama Banya, Town Chief Alpha Ndoleh welcomed the program, stressing the importance of showcasing Kailahun’s historic landmarks, including the Mao Bridge and the old slaughterhouse, to attract both domestic and international visitors.
Permanent Secretary Ms. Judith Jones applauded the nationwide rollout, encouraging participants to take ownership of the training so their communities can benefit directly from Sierra Leone’s growing tourism industry.
Highlighting Kailahun’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, the Director of Tourism underscored the district’s unique role during the civil war, noting that the Year of Ecotourism campaign seeks to both protect natural assets and reframe conflict narratives into stories of resilience.
In her keynote address, Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Hon. Nabeela Tunis, thanked President Julius Maada Bio and SLEDP for their support, commended MTCA staff for their dedication, and urged communities to “package and own their stories” as part of Sierra Leone’s tourism transformation.
The MTCA delegation, joined by local stakeholders, also toured historic sites such as Moa Barracks and Bridge, Pendebu Railway, Kailondo Castle, Kailahun Court Barry, and the Slaughterhouse. Findings from these visits will help shape strategies to position these locations as central attractions in Sierra Leone’s ecotourism drive.
