The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, led by Minister Nabeela Tunis, engaged stakeholders from the Lakka and Number 2 Beach communities in an effort to promote sustainable environmental practices and protect Sierra Leone’s prime tourist destinations.
The visit, part of the ministry’s “2025 Year of Ecotourism” initiative, focused on curbing sand mining, improving waste management, and strengthening security measures at the beaches. Minister Tunis urged community members to adopt eco-conscious practices to safeguard the environment and preserve the country’s tourism assets.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Rev. Edward Kwame Yankson, explained that the engagement aimed to identify challenges faced by coastal communities and raise awareness about environmental conservation. He assured stakeholders that the ministry would explore possible solutions and had already set up a committee to oversee the management of tourism sites.
Following discussions, Minister Tunis and her team toured both locations, witnessing firsthand the severe destruction caused by sand mining. Officials observed extensive environmental degradation at both Lakka and Number 2 Beach, reinforcing the urgency of addressing these issues.
The Ministry has committed to working closely with local communities to implement sustainable measures and enhance ecotourism in the region.