Freetown, 28th April, 2026 — Sierra Leone has unveiled the Leicester Peak Viewpoint, a landmark tourism facility perched high above Freetown, offering sweeping panoramic views of the peninsula and signalling the country’s bold ambition to become a premier global destination.
Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh officially commissioned the site, describing it as a flagship investment under the government’s economic diversification agenda and a symbol of renewed confidence in Sierra Leone’s tourism sector. The project was delivered with support from the World Bank through the Sierra Leone Economic Diversification Project (SLEDP), which seeks to reduce reliance on extractive industries by promoting sustainable sectors such as tourism.
The ceremony drew ministers, diplomats, private sector leaders, and community members, underscoring broad national and international support. Fourteen World Bank directors were present, reflecting the significance of the initiative. Guests viewed a short documentary on SLEDP before hearing presentations from Project Coordinator Mary Jalloh, Director of Tourism Mohamed Jalloh, and World Bank Country Manager Abdu Muwonge, who emphasized the next phase of private sector participation, job creation, and sustainable operations.
Designed as a world‑class facility, the Leicester Peak Viewpoint features modern viewing decks, rest areas, eco‑friendly landscaping, parking, and visitor amenities. A community representative expressed gratitude to government and partners, pledging that Leicester residents will safeguard the site and welcoming provisions that channel part of the proceeds directly to the community.
Finance Minister Sheku Fantamadi Bangura hailed the commissioning as a milestone that demonstrates Sierra Leone’s growing presence as a tourism destination and the socio‑economic impact of strategic investments. He stressed that the project reflects government’s commitment to job creation, particularly for women and youth, and announced plans to replicate similar developments across other scenic locations.
Tourism and Cultural Affairs Minister Nabeela Farida Tunis said the viewpoint represents more than infrastructure, calling it a clear signal that Sierra Leone is ready to welcome the world with authentic experiences. She traced tourism growth to policy reforms since 2019, noting that investments in marketing, capacity, and infrastructure have already boosted arrivals and revenue.
In his keynote, Vice President Jalloh described the Leicester Peak Viewpoint as “not just a scenic overlook but a fiscal manifestation of Sierra Leone’s evolving economic identity.” He said the investment reflects a deliberate multi‑sectoral transformation agenda aimed at reducing vulnerability to volatile commodity markets and unlocking high‑value sectors such as tourism. He emphasized that the commissioning marks a transition from recovery to sustained growth under the government’s New Direction Agenda, positioning Sierra Leone as a competitive destination for global travel and investment.
The ceremony concluded with a guided tour of the facility, where dignitaries experienced firsthand the breathtaking views and modern amenities that define the Leicester Peak Viewpoint, a new cornerstone of Sierra Leone’s Blue Economy strategy and a bold step toward tourism‑driven prosperity.
