By Nafisatu Olayinka Deen
Freetown, May 10, 2026 — Sierra Leone has officially launched its own music genre, “Troupe Beat,” a vibrant fusion of Afro‑Caribbean rhythms and traditional Sierra Leonean instruments designed to give the country a distinctive musical identity on the global stage.
The launch, themed “One Nation, One Sound, One Beat,” was organized by the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs and featured a live competition where twelve artists performed original songs inspired by the new sound.
After three rounds of performances judged by seasoned music professionals, Empress Lyana, the only female contestant, emerged as the winner, taking home NLe25,000 and the opportunity to record a professional single. Thomas George placed second with NLe20,000, while Baraka the Village Boy finished third, earning NLe15,000.
Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs Nabeela Farida Tunis described “Troupe Beat” as a milestone in Sierra Leone’s cultural evolution, noting that the idea was born from the One Nation Reggae Festival.
“The Troupe Beat is ours, and it is now open to everyone,” she said. “I’m calling on all artists to master the sound, experiment with it, and make something beautiful for Sierra Leone.”
Producer Bhai Dhawa Sesay, who developed the genre, said the new rhythm will help Sierra Leone carve out a unique space in the global music scene.
The event’s lively performances and creative energy underscored the country’s growing commitment to nurturing its cultural industries. Minister Tunis reaffirmed that support, announcing that the upcoming 2026 One Nation Reggae Festival, scheduled for May 25–30 in Freetown, “will be bigger and merrier.”
With “Troupe Beat,” Sierra Leone is striking a new chord, one that blends heritage, innovation, and unity into a rhythm the world can dance to.
