The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs (MTCA), in continuation of its nationwide Beach and Island Management Policy formulation exercise, conducted a comprehensive assessment and stakeholder engagement across key coastal sites in Kaffu Bullom Chiefdom, Lungi. This activity follows earlier assessments undertaken in major coastal destinations including Lumley-Aberdeen, Levuma, Lakka, Hamilton, and Number Two River Beach.
Supported by the Sierra Leone Economic Diversification Project (SLEDP), the assessment team, comprising MTCA technical officers and consultants Eduardo Martinez Dominguez and Patricia Hidria, visited notable beaches in Lungi, including Banda Beach and the beachfront area adjacent to Briefcase Entertainment. The consultants expressed strong impressions about the natural potential of Lungi’s coastal environments, noting that the beaches hold immense tourism value that can be unlocked through the adoption of appropriate beach management procedures and sustainable practices.
During the visit to Tassoh Island, the team was particularly struck by the island’s pristine beauty, cultural authenticity, and ecological richness. The consultants emphasized the need for structured management approaches to preserve the island’s natural character. Recommendations were offered focusing on preventing harmful environmental practices, ensuring responsible community use, and integrating conservation measures into future tourism development activities.
Following the site assessments, the MTCA convened a stakeholder community engagement meeting in Kaffu Bullom. The session brought together chiefdom authorities, local governance representatives, community leaders, tourism business operators, and youth groups.
Stakeholders commended the leadership of the Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Nabeela Farida Tunis, for prioritizing a structured and inclusive process toward developing a sustainable Beach and Island Management Policy.
Chiefdom leaders welcomed the initiative, acknowledging that proper management frameworks are critical for protecting their coastal resources and strengthening their role as custodians of the beaches and islands. Representatives of tourism establishments in the area also expressed appreciation, noting that they continue to face challenges linked to weak environmental management practices, issues they believe will be addressed through the upcoming policy.
Participants were later divided into group sessions to identify challenges, opportunities, and practical recommendations for effective management of beaches and islands in Kaffu Bullom. These group contributions provided valuable insights and will be integrated into the formulation of the national Beach and Island Tourism Policy and Management Plan.
The Lungi engagement forms part of the broader MTCA and SLEDP-supported process that seeks to develop a comprehensive Beach and Island Management Tourism Policy, anchored on sustainability, strong governance structures, community ownership, and improved environmental stewardship. The formulation exercise will continue across additional coastal and riverine communities as the Ministry works toward delivering a robust framework for the long-term management of Sierra Leone’s coastal resources.
MTCA Communications
