The Minister for Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Mrs. Nabeela Farida Tunis, has called for urgent and collective action to curb illegal sand mining, which poses a threat to the natural beauty and sustainability of Bureh Beach.

During her visit to the beach on September 20, 2024, as part of the World Bank-funded Sierra Leone Economic Diversification Project (SLEDP), Minister Tunis met with local residents who voiced their concerns over the damaging impacts of sand mining in the area.

Residents expressed deep frustration, stating that illegal sand mining not only hampers community development but also undermines the beach’s natural appeal, which is crucial for tourism. In response, Minister Tunis urged the local community to refrain from activities that could jeopardize the sustainability of the World Bank construction project. She emphasized the need for collective responsibility and a strong collaborative effort to address this issue.

Highlighting the September tourism theme, “Tourism Multiplier Benefits,” the minister underscored the positive economic impact tourism could have on Bureh Beach Village, citing the area’s potential to generate substantial revenue for the country. However, she warned that if illegal sand mining continues, it could drive away tourists, causing economic losses for both the village and Sierra Leone.

The minister praised the private sector for adopting a management model that will allow the community to take over beach facilities after five years. She encouraged the community to acquire skills during this period to maximize revenue generation in the future.

Local stakeholders, such as Pa Santigie Kamara, lauded the government’s efforts and reiterated the need to protect the environment, urging authorities to tackle illicit mining activities effectively.