By Alvin Lansana Kargbo
At a recent Press Conference held at the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs on Kingharman Road, the Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Madam Nabeela Farida Tunis, highlighted the outcomes of their recent participation in the 67th UNWTO Regional Commission for Africa (CAF) meeting. The event brought together approximately 30 tourism Ministers and Deputy Ministers from across the continent to discuss critical issues and collaborative strategies for advancing Africa’s tourism sector.
Madam Nabeela reported that key discussions at the meeting focused on reinforcing commitment to Africa’s tourism agenda, improving connectivity across the continent and reforming visa policies to facilitate easier travel within Africa. She emphasized Sierra Leone’s efforts in these areas, noting the successful implementation of a streamlined visa system and ongoing connectivity improvements.
The Minister also detailed bilateral meetings with counterparts from Zambia and other African nations. These discussions centered on collaborative initiatives to leverage each country’s unique tourism offerings, enhance mutual tourism flow and develop exchange programs. Specific opportunities explored included joint meetings and cultural events with Zambia and Zimbabwe.
She highlighted an upcoming high-profile visit from a UN tourism official and the potential for hosting significant events, such as the third Regional Gastronomy Forum. Although an initial proposal to host an event in September was postponed, Sierra Leone remains eager to demonstrate its capacity for organizing international conferences. She stated that Sierra Leone proposed and received approval to host the third UN Tourism Gastronomy Forum in 2026, expected to significantly boost tourism arrivals.
The Minister also discussed the Women in Tourism Leadership African Committee (WiTLAQ), a Committee formed by African female Ministers focused on advancing women in the tourism sector. Sierra Leone currently chairs this Committee and will host the WiTLAQ conference in October, aiming to shape and address objectives for women in tourism across Africa.
During the conference, the Minister stated that she engaged in side meetings to discuss potential partnerships and support for Sierra Leone’s gastronomy culture. Promising discussions with the First Ladies of Zimbabwe and Angola led to invitations for further cooperation in the tourism sector.
She said they also shared the Sierra Leone “Tourism for All” campaign model, aiming to raise awareness and potentially be adapted by other countries facing similar challenges. The Minister emphasized promoting positive stories about Sierra Leone to enhance its international image and attract more tourists. She acknowledged the efforts of journalists and bloggers in this endeavor and urged their continued support.
Fatmata Carew, General Manager of the National Tourism Board (NTB), provided a comprehensive summary of the recent conference. She stated that the conference positioned Sierra Leone in a positive light, showcasing its focus on choice and gastronomy over the past five years. One primary focus was the $20 trillion global tourism market and Africa’s position within it, emphasizing the continent as complementary rather than competitive, recognizing the unique tourism offerings of each country.
The General Manager highlighted discussions around rebranding Africa to showcase its rich cultural diversity and unique tourism products, moving away from the narrative of security issues and diseases. She said the conference addressed challenges such as the lack of a skilled workforce, limited awareness of African tourism experiences and complex visa regulations. Solutions discussed included improving tourism data, enhancing security and promoting intra-African travel.
She stressed the importance of Government investment in tourism infrastructure and skills development to boost the sector. The General Manager also noted the consensus on creating a positive image of African destinations, similar to how Europe projects itself positively despite its own challenges.
She said the Ministers showed strong commitment to implementing the discussed strategies in Sierra Leone, focusing on policy changes, infrastructure development and projecting a positive image of Sierra Leone and Africa.
