MTCA Takes Tourism for All Campaign to the North-West Region of Port Loko

6th June, 2024

In a continued effort to promote and showcase Sierra Leone’s rich cultural heritage and diversity, the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, alongside its agencies and partners, has launched the Tourism for All Campaign (TFA) in the North-West Region of Port Loko. The event, held at Port Loko Mini Stadium, attracted Traditional Leaders and District Stakeholders.

Organized by the Directorate of Culture, Creativity, and Innovation, the launch of the TFA Campaign in the North-West Region follows similar successful events in Bo and Makeni. The campaign received unprecedented support in Port Loko, with a jubilant and enthusiastic crowd braving the rains to support the initiative. Cultural and traditional processions from diverse groups set a vibrant tone for the momentous event.

In his opening remarks, Permanent Secretary Edward Kwame Yankson emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to transforming tourism by embarking on a year-long campaign to showcase and promote Sierra Leone’s rich cultural heritage and diversity. Director of Culture, Creativity, and Innovation, Foday Jalloh, highlighted that the campaign aims to bring tourism and culture to every district’s doorstep.

Paramount Chief Bai Forki Fainka II of Maforki Chiefdom welcomed Minister Nabeela Farida Tunis and her team, expressing gratitude for highlighting Port Loko by extending the Tourism for All Campaign to the region. The Mayor of Port Loko, Alie Badara Mansaray, and Resident Minister Amb. Bond Wurie shared positive sentiments, noting that the event not only showcased culture but also fostered national cohesion by bringing together people of all tribes and regions. A representative of the National Peace Commission echoed these sentiments with a peace message.

Addressing the jubilant crowd in the rain, Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs Nabeela Farida Tunis stated that they were in Port Loko to launch the campaign and celebrate Sierra Leone’s cultural diversity while promoting tourism. She explained that the TFA campaign, dubbed “tourism na all man bizness,” aims to help people understand the value of tourism and culture and reignite their passion for it. “It is significant that we are here in Bai Bureh’s land, as it resonates with June’s theme of Monuments and Relics in the Tourism for All campaign and reminds us of the district’s rich history and heritage,” she stated.

The event featured performances by popular singers Speedo and Collabo, followed by cultural and acrobatic displays from diverse traditional groups. The Cultural Directorate also performed a short skit depicting the importance of collaboration for tourism to thrive while Reggae Union Sierra Leone entertained the audience with live band performances and the TFA theme song titled ‘tourism business na all man business’.