By Hassan Osman Kargbo
The recently concluded ECOFEST musical festival has not only reaffirmed its position as one of the most anticipated cultural events of the year but also set a benchmark for transparency and credibility in event management.
The festival, which showcases a blend of music, dance, and community spirit, culminated in the crowning of Miss ECOFEST 2024, marking a highlight of the celebrations.
In a delightful ceremony, the Minister of Tourism, Madam Nabeela Tunis, crowned Rosetta Sylvaina Dumbuya, a final-year Linguistics student at Fourah Bay College the winner of the prestigious title.
Madam Tunis’s presence at the ceremony emphasized the significance of such events in fostering local talent and promoting tourism.
In her address, she praised the efforts of the ECOFEST team, led by Chief Executive Officer Mrs. Hawawa Hawa Turay, who expressed excitement about the festival’s success and the commitment to showcase their credible work in the community. “We are thrilled to have had the opportunity to present ECOFEST in the best possible light, and we want to assure everyone that the hard work behind the scenes has not gone unnoticed,” said Turay.
Her remarks highlighted the meticulous planning and execution that went into the festival, ensuring that everything was conducted transparently and ethically.
The choice of Dumbuya as Miss ECOFEST 2024 has garnered significant attention. As a Linguistics student, Rosetta symbolizes the fusion of culture and education, embodying the spirit of the festival, which aims to promote not just entertainment but also intellectual engagement among the youth.
Her victory is largely attributed to her poise, commitment to excellence, and her vision for cultural advocacy in her community.
With her new title, she aims to leverage her platform to empower other young women, bolster local talent, and further contribute to the rich tapestry of Sierra Leone’s cultural heritage.
The event also shone a light on the crucial role the government can play in supporting artistic endeavours.
Minister Tunis, in her closing remarks, expressed her admiration for the festival, and extended her gratitude to the ECOFEST team for their unwavering support.
She assured them that the Ministry of Tourism would continue to back such initiatives in any way possible, thus fostering a collaborative spirit between government and local organizations in promoting culture and tourism.
ECOFEST serves as a vital platform for the expression of cultural identity and national pride. It not only entertains but educates the public about the diverse traditions and contemporary issues faced by the community.
The transparent selection process for Miss ECOFEST, overseen by a panel of judges and audience members, set a precedent for future festivals, ensuring fairness and inclusivity.
As the festival wraps up, the buzz surrounding ECOFEST 2024 continues to resonate within the community and beyond.
The success of this event reiterates the importance of local festivals in bringing people together, fostering creativity, and highlighting the rich cultural landscape of Sierra Leone. More importantly, it establishes a clear pathway for other organizations to emulate this model of transparency and accountability, nurturing trust and enthusiasm among participants and attendees alike.
In conclusion, ECOFEST 2024 has not only crowned a new queen but has also solidified its status as a beacon of community spirit and cultural celebration.
As we celebrate the achievements of individuals like Rosetta Sylvaina Dumbuya, we are reminded of the potential that lies within the youth of our nation and the vital role of transparency and integrity in nurturing this potential for the prosperity of all.
