In adherence to timelines flagged for the upcoming Federation Elections in September as a priority requiring proactive attention, the Transitional Leadership Committee (TLC) has officially commenced its nationwide regional tour in Makeni, marking a pivotal step toward consolidating the stakeholders for the National Tourism Federation. The tour is designed to engage local actors, foster collaboration, and build consensus on the future of Sierra Leone’s tourism sector.
Hosted at the Royal Hotel in Makeni City, the TLC’s regional engagement was aimed at strengthening dialogue between government, private sector, and community stakeholders; promoting inclusivity in decision-making for tourism development; and laying the groundwork for a unified Federation that can serve as the voice of the industry.
In his brief statement, the Head of Delegation, who also doubled as the Secretary for the TLC, Mr Abdul Kareem Jalloh, emphasised that the tour is not merely consultative but a participatory process to ensure that every region contributes to shaping the Federation’s agenda. He underscored that tourism is a national asset requiring collective stewardship, and the Federation will serve as a platform for coordination, advocacy, and innovation.
It could be recalled that the Federation was conceived as a response to longstanding challenges in Sierra Leone’s tourism industry, including fragmented representation, weak institutional coordination, and limited investment. Its establishment seeks to provide a unified body to represent diverse tourism stakeholders, including hospitality, culture, the film industry, creative industries, and community enterprises
It also seeks to enhance policy advocacy, ensure that sectoral priorities are reflected in national development strategies, and mobilise resources and partnerships for sustainable tourism growth.
The Federation is envisioned as a transformative instrument that enables Sierra Leone to position itself competitively within West Africa’s tourism landscape. By bringing together voices from across the country, it aims to strengthen destination management, improve service standards, and promote cultural heritage as a cornerstone of national identity.
Makeni was chosen as the starting site for its strategic role in the Northern Province and its growing reputation as a hub for cultural and eco-tourism. The city’s involvement symbolises the Federation’s commitment to regional inclusivity and the recognition that tourism development must extend beyond Freetown to harness the full potential of Sierra Leone’s diverse landscapes and communities.
