By Hassan Osman Kargbo
The One Nation Reggae Festival, held at Olive Garden and powered by the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, in collaboration with the Reggae Union of Sierra Leone, proved to be an electrifying celebration of culture, unity, and music that brought together hundreds of people from across the country and beyond.
The high-energy event was a vibrant fusion of powerful live bands, passionate reggae performers, and pulsating DJs, all blending to create a memorable night filled with rhythm, harmony, and meaning. With its core focus on promoting peace and unity, the festival stood as a clear reflection of Sierra Leone’s growing embrace of culture-driven tourism under the ongoing “Year of Ecotourism” campaign.
The theme—connecting culture, community, and conservation—was on full display as performers and attendees gathered not just to enjoy music, but also to promote a message of togetherness and national identity. Reggae lovers, cultural advocates, students, dignitaries, and even guests from the Caribbean came together to honour reggae as more than a genre— a symbol of resilience, identity, and liberation.
One of the festival’s most impactful highlights was an educational segment aimed at students and young people. Organized with the goal of passing on knowledge about Sierra Leone’s cultural history and values, the session engaged young minds in conversations about music, heritage, and patriotism. Speakers emphasized the importance of using culture as a tool for nation-building and maintaining peace.
“This festival is more than music. It is about educating the next generation about our roots and the values that bind us as Sierra Leoneans,” said one of the organizers. “Through reggae, we pass on not just songs, but wisdom and unity.”
Throughout the evening, the crowd was treated to powerful tributes to reggae legends, including Sierra Leone’s own Amara Kabba. Performers used the platform to both entertain and inspire, using their voices to echo themes of justice, freedom, and community. Attendees danced, sang, and waved flags in celebration of a shared cultural identity that transcends borders.
In a moment filled with emotion and symbolism, a flame of unity was lit on stage to represent the collective spirit of Sierra Leoneans and the country’s journey toward peace, emancipation, and national healing. The gesture was met with cheers and applause, highlighting the deep emotional connection between the people and the music that speaks to their history.
The One Nation Reggae Festival stood not only as a night of entertainment but as a bold cultural statement. It showcased how music and tradition can bring people together to reflect on their past, celebrate their present, and shape a more united future.
The Ministry of Tourism, along with its partners, promised to continue promoting cultural events that inspire unity and proudly represent Sierra Leone on the global stage.
