A widely circulated notice on social media has sparked controversies among Sierra Leoneans, regarding an alleged tax increase related to traveling out of the country.

The notice, titled: “Tax Review for Travel Ex-Sierra Leone,” indicates that the government of Sierra Leone has issued a directive to increase taxes on outbound travel from Sierra Leone by one hundred and sixty-five US dollars (USD165).

It further stated that the said hike is to take effect on the 1st of December 2023, noting that tickets issued before this date will not attract the new tax.

The notice has raised concerns among Sierra Leoneans with many eager to know the accuracy of the said information. Many citizens are fearing for its impact on travel expenses if the notice turns out to be accurate.

Meanwhile, the Sierra Leone Government’s stance is unclear as they have neither come out to refute the said claims on the notice nor have, they confirmed it.