Telem Uncommon Sounds, in partnership with the Embassy of Sierra Leone in Washington DC and the Honorary Consul of Sierra Leone in Jamaica, is set to host a global musicians exchange in Sierra Leone.

This announcement was made during a press briefing organized by the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs on Friday, November 10, 2023.

Deputy Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Dr. Kadijatu Grace Ahene Kamara, expressed gratitude to the visiting Jamaican musicians and highlighted Sierra Leone’s eagerness to showcase its diverse talents to the world. Dr. Kamara emphasized the importance of storytelling through music, encouraging collaboration between Sierra Leonean and international artists, especially the youth.

Dr. Kamara, drawing parallels between Sierra Leone and Jamaica, urged support for the Telem music festival, emphasizing the power of music to define and inspire. She invited everyone to make the festival colorful and demonstrate the strength of unity between Sierra Leone and Jamaica.

Managing Partner, Mohamed Cozie Kosia, revealed that discussions for the musical exchange and partnerships began after Sierra Leone opened its consulate in Jamaica in February 2023. He emphasized the importance of discipline in the music industry and the ongoing efforts to improve the sector.

Sierra Leone Consul in Jamaica, Professor Rosalea Hamilton, echoed the sentiment of unity between Sierra Leoneans and Jamaicans, emphasizing the potential for trade, development, and collaborative workshops. She highlighted initiatives such as the women empowerment program, underscoring the investment in people as a significant asset.

The Telem Uncommon Sounds will host three Jamaican musicians in Sierra Leone as part of the Telem week 2023, a songwriting retreat and performance festival scheduled between November 10 and 19, 2023. The event aims to provide a platform for uncommon musicians to create and perform original experimental music together, fostering cultural exchange and collaboration.