By Hassan Osman Kargbo
Sierra Leone has secured a proud place on the continental stage as Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Nabeela Farida Tunis, was honoured with two major awards at the 21st AKWAABA African Travel Market in Nigeria. Minister Tunis received the award for Best Minister of Tourism in Africa and was also listed among the Top 100 Travel and Tourism Personalities in Africa.
The AKWAABA Travel Market is widely regarded as one of Africa’s most respected tourism platforms, bringing together leading stakeholders from across the continent to celebrate excellence and innovation in the sector. The recognition of Minister Tunis at such a prestigious forum marks both a personal achievement and a national triumph for Sierra Leone.
The awards highlight the transformative strides the country has made under her stewardship in positioning Sierra Leone as a top cultural and travel destination. They also reflect her visionary leadership, tireless dedication, and commitment to ensuring that tourism plays a central role in the nation’s development agenda.
Since her appointment as Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Nabeela Tunis has worked to rebrand Sierra Leone’s global image, showcasing its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and potential as a destination of choice for international travellers. She has consistently emphasized that tourism is not just about leisure but a key driver of economic growth, job creation, and cultural exchange.
Speaking after the announcement, many industry observers noted that her recognition symbolizes Sierra Leone’s growing influence within the African tourism landscape. It also demonstrates how strategic leadership can turn challenges into opportunities, particularly in a sector that has faced global disruptions in recent years.
Beyond the awards, Minister Tunis’s success carries deep symbolic value for women and girls across Africa. In a field often dominated by men, her achievements prove that leadership knows no gender, only vision, passion, and impact. Advocates of women’s empowerment have hailed her recognition as an inspiration for the next generation, reinforcing the idea that African women can rise to the highest levels of leadership and deliver tangible change.
“This is women empowerment at its fullest,” one tourism expert commented at the event. “Minister Tunis’s recognition sends a powerful message that African women have what it takes to lead, to transform industries, and to inspire entire nations.”
For Sierra Leone, the moment goes beyond personal accolades. It is a national milestone, strengthening the country’s brand across Africa and beyond. Tourism has long been identified as one of the sectors with immense potential for diversification of the economy, and international recognition of its leadership adds momentum to ongoing efforts.
Minister Tunis’s acknowledgment among Africa’s top tourism figures also places Sierra Leone firmly on the continental map of excellence. Her success reflects not only the progress already achieved but also the promise of greater opportunities ahead for the sector.
As the nation celebrates this achievement, the story of Nabeela Farida Tunis stands as a reminder that dedication and vision can transform both personal journeys and national fortunes. Her leadership continues to pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future for Sierra Leone’s tourism industry and for women leaders across the continent.
