By Kadijatu Bangura, Reporter, Daily Scope
Sierra Leone’s Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Mrs. Nabeela Farida Tunis, presented the country as an emerging tourism destination at the ITB High Level Ministerial Global Roundtable in Berlin. During the event, hosted by CNN’s Richard Quest, Minister Tunis referred to Sierra Leone as “the new kid on the block” in the tourism industry.
Joined by tourism leaders from Albania, Croatia, and the European Travel Commission, Minister Tunis highlighted Sierra Leone’s hospitality, stunning natural resources, and rich cultural heritage as key attractions for travelers. “Hospitality comes naturally to Sierra Leoneans,” she stated, emphasizing the nation’s commitment to promoting sustainable tourism through the “Tourism for All Campaign,” which trains citizens to preserve natural resources.
The Minister also outlined the country’s focus on ecotourism for 2025, integrating elements of nature, culture, arts, and conservation. While acknowledging challenges related to connectivity, she noted, “Every destination offers something unique, and we must focus on our strengths.”
Looking ahead, Minister Tunis discussed plans to attract more investment in infrastructure and the implementation of a Public Private Community Partnership model to ensure sustainability. Sierra Leone’s key tourism markets include Canada, the USA, and Europe, with visitors often captivated by the country’s authenticity and returning with more travelers.
The session concluded with Richard Quest and other panelists expressing their interest in visiting Sierra Leone to experience the country’s tourism potential firsthand.
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