By Andrew Chokpeleh
Freetown, 20th January 2026- The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs has unveiled the official logo for Sierra Leone’s 2026 Year of Culture and Creativity, a landmark step in the country’s drive to elevate culture and tourism as engines of national pride and economic growth.
At Tuesday’s ceremony, Minister Nabeela Tunis described the unveiling as more than a symbolic gesture. “Today is about clarity of purpose. It is about who we are as a people and what we choose to stand for. Culture defines our identity, our dignity, and how the world recognizes us,” she said, thanking stakeholders, creatives, and partners for shaping the vision.
The Minister highlighted the ministry’s deliberate programming in recent years, citing the Tourism for All campaign in 2024 and the Year of Ecotourism in 2025. She explained that the new initiative was developed in close collaboration with private sector players, cultural practitioners, and creative industry leaders, with support from the First Lady. It aligns with Sierra Leone’s Medium-Term National Development Plan, the National Cultural Policy, and global frameworks, including UNESCO conventions.
Defining culture as “living practices such as music, crafts, design, storytelling, fashion, theatre, performance, and traditional skills passed from one generation to another,” Tunis emphasized that the 2026 programme will showcase Sierra Leone’s diverse heritage while creating opportunities for innovation and livelihoods.
Director Brima reinforced the message, noting that tourism reflects the country’s daily growth and transformation. He praised the Minister’s leadership, saying: “This programme would not have come this far without the commitment of the Honourable Minister. We are grateful for her vision and dedication,” drawing applause from the audience.
He added that the initiative also served as an educational platform for students present at the event, offering them a chance to connect with their heritage and creative potential. Importantly, he stressed that culture and tourism are not the preserve of a few ethnic groups but a shared national asset representing all communities, including those often overlooked.
The Year of Culture and Creativity will feature nationwide exhibitions, performances, and investment opportunities designed to strengthen Sierra Leone’s creative economy and position the country as a leading cultural and tourism destination.
