Dear friends,

I congratulate you on the launch of your first national strategy for tourism development.

And above all, I thank Minister Nabeela Tunis, who also serves as Chair of the Women in Tourism Leadership African Committee, for her commitment and vision.

We all know what our sector can offer.

But we also recognize the need for proper planning, strong actions and good governance.

Today, Sierra Leone sets off on an important journey. Today, you lay the foundations for transforming tourism as the sector recovers from the pandemic.

I am especially happy to see that Sierra Leone’s National Tourism Plan lines up fully with the Sustainable Development Goals.

The plan focuses on inclusion, environmental conservation, biodiversity protection, and the creation of decent jobs, including for women and youth.

At the same time, it makes clear the need for strong partnerships with the private sector as we work together around shared goals.

This spirit of collaboration will be key to the success of the National Tourism Plan.

UN Tourism is ready to support you however we can.

And we look forward to watching the development of tourism in Sierra Leone for the benefit of all.