Freetown, 9th July 2026- As Sierra Leone prepares to host the ECOWAS Mid-Year Summit, Presidential Press Secretary Yusuf Keketoma Sandi has urged citizens to extend genuine hospitality and showcase the nation’s rich culture to thousands of delegates and visitors expected from across West Africa.
Speaking at a special government press conference convened by Minister of Information and Civic Education, Hon. Chernor Bah, on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at the Miatta Civic Centre in Freetown, Sandi emphasized that the summit is more than a diplomatic gathering. He described it as a rare opportunity to shape international perceptions of Sierra Leone and position the country as a destination for tourism, investment, and future regional events.
“We are not always as hospitable as we should be,” Sandi observed. “When we welcome visitors, whether they are arriving in our country or attending an event, we should receive them with kindness. We should smile, welcome them warmly, and allow them to experience our culture because our culture is our way of life.”
The Press Secretary stressed that every interaction—from airports and hotels to restaurants, offices, markets, and public spaces—sends a powerful message about Sierra Leone. He called on service providers, transport operators, business owners, public officials, and hospitality workers to demonstrate courtesy, respect, and professionalism throughout the summit period.
“We want our visitors to leave saying, ‘These are wonderful people. They are generous, welcoming, and have a beautiful culture.’ That is the image we should project to the rest of West Africa and the world,” he said.
Sandi noted that hospitality is not limited to grand ceremonies but is often defined by simple gestures such as warm greetings, offering assistance, and displaying genuine friendliness. He encouraged Sierra Leoneans to use the summit as a platform to highlight the country’s cultural heritage, arts and crafts, cuisine, music, and traditions—assets he said could stimulate tourism and strengthen regional ties.
Turning to media participation, Sandi appealed to journalists to complete the official online accreditation process, assuring that applications would be assessed transparently and fairly through the designated registration platform.
The ECOWAS Mid-Year Summit is expected to bring together Heads of State and Government, ministers, diplomats, development partners, business leaders, and media practitioners from across the region. Government officials have described the event as a historic opportunity to deepen regional integration while showcasing Sierra Leone’s hospitality and readiness to host major international gatherings.
Concluding his remarks, Sandi urged every Sierra Leonean to act as an ambassador for the nation. “The success of the summit will not only be measured by diplomatic outcomes but also by the lasting impressions created through the warmth, courtesy, and hospitality extended to every visitor,” he said.
