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The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs with support from the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Sierra Leone has commissioned a multi-purpose Mini Pavilion at the Ministry’s Kingharman Road Headquarters.
The unveiling of this multi-purpose facility was an attempt by the Ministry to provide the space for the creatives to showcase their talents and also to play host to official functions of the Ministry and its agencies.
Permanent Secretary, Edward Kwame Yankson in his opening remarks provided the background on the project, saying that it started in October 2023 with the signing of an agreement with the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Sierra Leone and the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs to receive a grant for the construction of a multi-purpose pavilion.
He acknowledged the foresight and resolve of Minister Nabeela Tunis and the continued support of the Chinese Embassy in ensuring that the project comes to fruition. He mentioned that the facility is not just an infrastructure but a symbol of the enduring partnership between China and Sierra Leone and also a demonstration of achieving set objectives in the tourism for all campaign. He applauded the Chinese contributions to the sector and encouraged them to give more support to development of tourism and culture in Sierra Leone.
Director of Tourism, Travel and Exchange, Mohamed Jalloh premised his remarks on the immense benefits the Chinese government has provided to the Sector and the country at large, while Director of Culture, Creativity and Innovation, Foday Jalloh reiterated Chinese support to the country over the years. He stated that the Ministry is readily poised to accelerate the continued progress of tourism and culture with the support of government, the Chinese and other partners.
Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Sierra Leone, H.E. Wang Qing remarked that he was excited to be part of the commissioning of the monumental edifice at the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs. He highlighted the significance of culture as the cornerstone for tourism to thrive. He maintained that with the unveiling of the pavilion there is now a new platform that allows people to showcase and explore their vibrant talents. He congratulated Minister Nabeela Tunis for the milestone achievement and also applauded the Chinese Embassy’s contribution to the development of the edifice, symbolizing the mutual bi-lateral relationship between the two nations.
Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Nabeela Tunis in her keynote address appreciated the Chinese Embassy and Ambassador Wang Qing for funding the construction of the edifice. She intimated that the construction of the Mini Pavilion was an attempt to create a space for the creatives and cultural players to express and showcase their talents and also to unlock the depth of talent in the sector. She recognized the immense contributions of the private sector and other partners to the sector.
Minister Tunis mentioned that the 2024 Tourism for All Campaign has made tremendous impact nationwide surpassing the targeted 3.5 million people. She thanked the leadership of the Ministry, staff and all associated with the Ministry for their immense contribution in getting the Ministry to the laudable heights it is today. She disclosed that 2025 will be more exciting and called on all to join the Eco-Tourism initiative the Ministry will be embarking on.
Mrs. Tunis used the occasion to appreciate the legacy and contribution of Late Lansana Sheriff, fondly known as Steady Bongo to Sierra Leone’s culture. Awards of recognition were given to deserving individuals for their contributions to the tourism and culture. Cutting of the tape by Minister Tunis and Ambassador Qing to commission the pavilion and unveiling the plaque climaxed the occasion.
