The Government of Sierra Leone has taken decisive action against non-compliant beachfront operators along Lumley Beach, resulting in the immediate closure of several establishments, including the Sport Zone Beach Structure operated by Chief Minister David Moinina Sengeh and his family.

On Friday, 4th April, 2025, the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, in collaboration with the National Tourist Board, released a statement listing twenty-four beachfront operators facing closure due to violations of sanitation laws and debts.

The government emphasized that the action follows multiple reminders and direct engagement with operators to address those issues.

The press release cited “continued non-compliance with beachfront regulations” as the primary reason for the enforcement action. Specific concerns included failures to properly manage waste and a lack of payment for required annual dues. The Ministry noted that despite previous attempts to address those violations, certain operators have neglected to fulfill their statutory obligations.

Related News

According to the press statement, the twenty-four affected establishments include Sport Zone (owned by Chief Minister), Olive Garden Beach Bar, Open Air Aqua, Chicken Town, Sierra Leone Volleyball Association/Africell Gym, Babie’s Props, Harr Home Food and Restaurant, Decode, Hotel De La Joie, Ambiance Beach Garden, Silver Spoon, StarZee Beach Bar, JT Fruit Enterprise, Edet Bar and Restaurant (formerly Empress), Axxess Beach Bar, Kololi Restaurant, Jansie Rescue Mission SL, Sway Resto, West End Palace, Fang (Bob Rogers), Country Sport Bar, Tido’s, Sky Bar, and Papa Cleff/EhyoohIn.

In enforcing the closure, the Ministry stated, “We hereby announce the closure of these beach bars with immediate effect.” The authorities reiterated the importance of adhering to regulatory requirements, emphasizing that those measures are essential for maintaining the integrity and sustainability of Sierra Leone’s tourism sector.

In conclusion, the government expressed appreciation for those businesses that comply with the country’s laws, highlighting their commitment to fostering a fair and equitable business environment within the tourism industry.