The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs (MTCA) has engaged stakeholders in Bonthe District as part of its ongoing Tourism for All Campaign, which aims to raise awareness about tourism and cultural preservation across Sierra Leone. The event was on December 9, 2024 at the OIC Hall in Matru Jong- Bonthe District.
The awareness campaign was chaired by Mr. Morsay, Deputy Secretary of the Ministry.
Morsay emphasised the significance of the ‘Tourism for All Campaign initiative initiated under the leadership of Minister Nabeela Tunis.
He explained that the campaign aims to revive tourism and cultural heritage nationwide, noting that many Sierra Leoneans have lost touch with their cultural identity. The goal is to take tourism to every district, ensuring that no region is left behind; and today, we are excited to bring this initiative to Bonthe District, he stated.
The Deputy Chairman of Bonthe District Council, Mr. Jonathan Tucker, welcomed the initiative, expressing gratitude to the ministry for finally bringing the campaign to their district. He assured the Ministry of the district’s commitment to fully embrace the opportunities presented and pledged support for future tourism-related activities. We are ready to work with the Ministry to promote tourism and ensure the safety of visitors in Bonthe District, he said.
In his remarks, the Local Unit Commander (LUC) of Bonthe Division, Mr. Junusa Ben Mohamed, applauded Minister Tunis for her visionary leadership and highlighted the campaigns importance in reviving cultural pride.
He assured the Ministry of maximum security for all tourism-related activities in the district. Dont be afraid to be in Bonthe. When you are here, you are threat-free, LUC Mohamed reassured participants.
The Deputy Mayor of Bonthe District Council, Mr. Daniel S. Bangalie, echoed similar sentiments, affirming that the people of Bonthe are ready to support the Ministrys awareness-raising efforts.
Delivering the keynote address, Mohamed Foday Jalloh, Director of Culture at MTCA, provided an overview of the Tourism for All Campaign, describing it as one of the Ministrys flagship policies under Minister Tunis.
He outlined the year-long thematic approach adopted by the ministry, which dedicates each month to a different aspect of tourism. December is particularly special as it is filled with festivities and entertainment, including the Salone Civic Festival in Freetown, the Bo Festival, and the Lumley Open Carnival, Director Jalloh highlighted.
Jalloh urged stakeholders to embrace tourism as a collective responsibility. Tourism is everyones business, and more importantly, it is womens business, he added, encouraging inclusivity in the campaign.
Madam Sallay Parsons, Chief of Chiefs for Bonthe District, called for establishing a tourism and cultural learning institution to deepen knowledge and skills in the sector. Tourism is womens business, and we need an institution to teach our people the value of tourism and culture, she emphasised.
Mohamed B. Mustapha, Information, Education, and Communication Officer for Bonthe District Council, recommended that the Ministry establish a sub-office in Bonthe to ensure continuous engagement and development.
Civil Society Organization (CSO) Chairman Joseph D. Sivalie, suggested identifying and developing tourist sites in Bonthe and installing billboards to promote tourism awareness across the district.
The event featured cultural performances organised by the ministry, underscoring Sierra Leone’s rich cultural heritage. It was climaxed by an interactive session led by Mr. Kamara, Deputy Director of Culture, during which participants raised questions and shared suggestions.
Credit: Joel Foday Dumbuya
