The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, together with the National Tourist Board, Tour Operators, and Travel Agencies held a Press Briefing at the Ministry’s Conference Hall on their participation at the recently concluded African Travel & Tourism Association (ATTA) in the UK, which took place from July 1st to July 4th, 2024.
Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs Nabeela Tunis, addressing the press, highlighted that the briefing was part of the Ministry’s initiative to keep the public informed about its key engagements abroad. She emphasized the importance of updating the press and the public on the Ministry’s activities outside Sierra Leone. Notably, Sierra Leone became the first West African country to be admitted as a member of the African Travel and Tourism Association. The country was prominently featured at ATTA in London, showcasing its rich culture through fashion, fabric, and food.
During the three days, the National Tourist Board, along with private sector representatives from Visit Sierra Leone and Tourism is Life, held numerous meetings aimed at showcasing, promoting, and selling Sierra Leone. These efforts resulted in establishing valuable partnerships to position Sierra Leone as a destination of choice.
The General Manager of the National Tourist Board and her team also reported a successful series of meetings and secured partnerships aimed at promoting Sierra Leone’s tourism on the international stage.
Minister Nabeela Tunis underscored the pivotal role played by the private sector and the National Tourist Board in highlighting Sierra Leone’s unique offerings. She noted that Sierra Leonean artifacts adorned many tables at the event.
Permanent Secretary, Edward Kwame Yankson highlighted the positive reception of Sierra Leone’s traditional cuisine, the process of making country cloth, and captivating performances by Sierra Leonean artists. These cultural displays generated significant interest and led many attendees to call for a repeat of Sierra Leonean day. These activities also attracted substantial partnerships for the Ministry.
Tour Operators, Visit Sierra Leone and Tourism is Life emphasized the crucial role of media in showcasing the country’s tourism. They reported that the ATTA experience provided direct opportunities to present Sierra Leone to key business stakeholders.
They noted several focused meetings, some of which have already yielded success, including three highly successful meetings resulting in pre-signed contracts.
MTCA Communications
