By Davida Spaine-Solomon
Freetown, 24th November 2025- The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs has announced that the highly anticipated One Nation Reggae Festival will take place from 25th to 30th November 2025, promising a week-long celebration of music, culture, and history.
Speaking on the festival, Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Nabeela Tunis, emphasized that the event is designed to Honor the deep cultural and historical connections between Sierra Leone, Jamaica, and the Caribbean. “This festival is more than just music; it is a celebration of our shared heritage and a platform to showcase Sierra Leone’s creative talent to the world,” Minister Tunis said.
The festival opens on 25th November 2025 at the Bintumani Conference Center, with the official launch led by His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio. The following day, the Freedom Tour will take participants on a journey to visit historic sites across the country, connecting attendees with Sierra Leone’s rich history.
On 27th November, the Creative Clinic and VIP Showcase will blend local Sierra Leonean sounds with reggae rhythms, creating a unique fusion of cultures. The highlight of the festival, the One Nation Reggae Concert, will be held on 28th November at the Radisson Blu Hotel, featuring performances by both local and international reggae artists. Ticket prices for the concert range from NLe 200 to NLe 1,500, making the event accessible to a wide audience.
The festival will culminate with the Reggae Freestyle and Bonfire at ZUZAZ Ferry Junction on 29th November, followed by the All White Heritage Celebration at Bunce Island on 30th November, promising a fitting close to a week of festivities.
Highlighting the festival’s broader impact, Minister Tunis revealed that 50% of the revenue generated from the week-long events will go toward the Creative Village, a government initiative aimed at nurturing local talent in Sierra Leone’s cultural and creative industries. In addition, she reassured the public that the World Bank-supported Leicester Peak Project is on track for completion next year.
Adding to the festival’s prelude, Foday Jalloh, Director of Culture, Creativity, and Innovation at the Ministry of Tourism, announced that on 22nd November 2025, a massive float parade will take place from Waterloo to Lumley Beach, setting the stage for the festival.
Addressing recent concerns regarding the renovation of the Fourah Bay College monument at Cline Town, Mr. Jalloh clarified that the reported $45,000 was allocated to the World Heritage Fund to restore the monument’s integrity and authenticity, with work currently ongoing.
With its lineup of events, international collaborations, and commitment to cultural development, the One Nation Reggae Festival promises to be a landmark celebration that will put Sierra Leone firmly on the global reggae map.
