The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs has outlined events in commemorating World Tourism Day on September 27.

In a press statement by the ministry, alongside its agencies will be joining the global community in commemorating UN World Tourism Day 2024.

The annual event is said to serves as a powerful reminder of tourism’s vital contributions to the social, cultural, political, and economic fabric of nations worldwide. The day is set to celebrate the transformative power of tourism, promote responsible and sustainable practices, and recognise the rich cultural diversity that tourism helps to showcase.

To mark this year’s World Tourism Day, the Ministry, in collaboration with its agencies and partners, have planned a series of events aimed at engaging rural communities, schools, tourism businesses, and youth and women groups. These activities, which include symposia, peace tours, and debates, are designed to raise public awareness of the symbiotic relationship between tourism and peace. Additionally, these events will promote domestic tourism, highlighting its economic benefits and its role in fostering social and cultural unity.

A peaceful environment not only attracts tourists but also ensures long-term growth in tourism receipts. Therefore, it is imperative for us Sierra Leoneans to engage in activities that enhance our global image and resolve conflicts through peaceful means.

The date, 27th September, was chosen for its historical significance. It marked the adoption of the UNWTO Statutes in 1970, which established the foundation for international recognition of tourism as a pivotal global sector.

Since 1980, Sierra Leone through the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, has celebrated this day, reaffirming our nation’s commitment to fostering tourism as a driver of growth and development.

The theme for this year’s celebration, ‘Tourism and Peace’, highlights the pivotal role tourism plays in promoting peace and resolving conflicts, both within and across borders. The synergies between tourism and peace cannot be overstated, as the sector’s potential to foster understanding, cultural exchange, and social cohesion is immense. By bringing people together from diverse backgrounds, tourism becomes a powerful tool for bridging divides and enhancing peaceful relations.

The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs extends its deepest gratitude to all stakeholders for their collaboration and commitment in promoting tourism for peace and national cohesion.