By Amin Kef (Ranger)
The Vice President of Sierra Leone, Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, has officially commissioned the Leicester Peak Viewpoint, delivering a strong and forward-looking message on Government’s commitment to repositioning tourism as a central pillar of economic transformation. The landmark facility, overlooking Freetown with sweeping panoramic views, is increasingly being recognized not merely as a scenic attraction but as a strategic asset within Sierra Leone’s evolving economic identity.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony on Friday, April 24, 2026, the Vice President described the project as a defining milestone that reflects Sierra Leone’s transition from recovery to a phase of high-performance growth. He emphasized that the Leicester Peak Viewpoint is part of a deliberate national effort to reduce dependence on volatile primary commodity markets and instead build a diversified, resilient and service-driven economy.
He noted that the project aligns with the Government’s broader “New Direction” agenda, signaling to global investors and the international travel industry that Sierra Leone is positioning itself as a competitive destination for sustainable investment and high-value tourism. According to him, the initiative represents a microcosm of a wider multi-sectoral transformation designed to create inclusive economic opportunities for all citizens.
Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh further underscored that tourism has now been elevated within the Medium-Term National Development Plan (2024–2030) from a traditional service sector to a key enabler of economic diversification. He stressed that sustainable growth cannot rely solely on mineral extraction, but must instead leverage Sierra Leone’s rich biodiversity, coastal assets and historical heritage to unlock long-term value.
Highlighting the socio-economic impact of tourism, he pointed out that the sector already supports tens of thousands of indirect jobs, while offering one of the most effective pathways for youth and women’s empowerment. He noted that Government’s approach is not limited to infrastructure development but extends to building integrated economic ecosystems that connect agriculture, transport, creative industries and professional services.
The project, implemented with support from the World Bank under the Sierra Leone Economic Diversification Project (SLEDP), also reflects a broader national vision to expand tourism beyond the Western Peninsula. The Vice President indicated that future development efforts will target sites such as the Gola-Tiwai Complex, Bunce Island and the Wara Mountains, as part of a nationwide strategy to distribute economic benefits across districts.
He reaffirmed Government’s commitment to a “high-value, low-impact” tourism model that prioritizes sustainability, environmental protection and quality visitor experiences. Stressing the importance of preserving the country’s ecological assets, he declared a zero-tolerance stance against encroachment on protected areas, noting that safeguarding natural heritage is fundamental to both national stability and long-term growth.
Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh also called on the private sector to seize emerging opportunities within the tourism space, assuring that the policy environment is becoming increasingly stable and investment-friendly.
Minister of Finance, Sheku Fantamadi Bangura, described the commissioning as a clear demonstration of the tangible results of strategic public investment, noting that such initiatives are enhancing Sierra Leone’s global visibility and strengthening prospects for inclusive growth.
Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Nabeela Farida Tunis, highlighted the progress made in strengthening tourism policies and infrastructure since 2019, describing the facility as a symbol of the country’s readiness to welcome international visitors.
World Bank Country Manager, Abdu Muwonge, emphasized the importance of private sector participation in ensuring the long-term sustainability of the project, while noting its potential to generate employment and support local enterprises.
The commissioning concluded with a guided tour of the facility, showcasing its modern viewing decks, eco-friendly landscaping and visitor amenities. The Leicester Peak Viewpoint now stands not only as a tourism attraction but as a powerful symbol of Sierra Leone’s journey from potential to performance, reinforcing Government’s determination to build a diversified and resilient economy for future generations.
