The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs today joined the Ministry of Social Welfare, the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, and MBSSE in commemorating International Family Day 2026 through a nationwide Family Health Walk held in Freetown. The event, which started at Aberdeen Roundabout and ended at the SOS Hermann Gmeiner International School, brought together families, children, government officials and development partners under the theme: “Families, Inequalities and Child Wellbeing.” Marking Sierra Leone’s first official observance of the day since its declaration by the United Nations in 1993, the initiative promoted healthy living, family bonding and community togetherness.

The city came alive early this morning as hundreds of Sierra Leoneans turned out with their families dressed in comfortable walking gear to participate in the inclusive exercise. Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Nabeela Tunis, joined Minister of Social Welfare, Melrose Karminty, alongside other Cabinet colleagues and members of the public in the symbolic walk for stronger families and healthier communities. A cross-section of staff from the Ministry and its agencies also participated, including the General Manager of the National Tourist Board, Fatmata Mida Carew. Reflecting on the significance of the event, Minister Tunis noted: “Strong families build strong nations. When we walk together, support one another and protect our children, we create healthier and more united communities for generations to come.”

At the finish line, participants engaged in family bonding activities, received health tips and signed a symbolic Commitment Wall pledging to protect children and promote safer homes by ending child marriage and domestic violence.