Freetown | 12th September 2023 | Vertex Media
Written by:
Alhaji K. Tarawally (Laj-K)
Ph.D. Candidate (EUCLID, CAR), M.A. IRD (SIU, Germany), MSc IRD (UoR, UK), BA Hons. (FBC, SL),DIP (FBC)
Sierra Leone, a West African nation known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, is emerging as an important player in the global tourism industry. With its white, sandy beaches, astounding wildlife, and great weather year-round, Sierra Leone offers a unique experience for travellers. In recent years, the government has recognised the potential of tourism as a significant economic driver and has been actively promoting the industry. This article explores how tourism can generate income and create easily accessible training opportunities and jobs, as well as sales markets for services and local products. Here are some of the benefits of tourism:
Economic Benefit
Tourism has the potential to significantly contribute to Sierra Leone’s economy by creating jobs, strengthening the local economy and contributing to regional infrastructure development. Through tourism, foreign exchange can be generated, and jobs can be made, thereby stimulating our economy. As visitors spend money on accommodation, meals, transportation, and local goods and services, tourism brings in valuable revenue that can alleviate the financial burden on the government. Through the development of support services and increased opportunities in other industries, such as food, agriculture, hospitality, transportation and construction, tourism is a vital engine.
Employment Opportunities
Tourism can boost Sierra Leone’s revenue, creating thousands of jobs, developing the country’s infrastructure and planting a sense of cultural exchange between foreigners and Sierra Leoneans. It is a driver of job growth and economic prosperity. Research has shown that tourism accounts for 1 in every 10 jobs worldwide and delivers 1 in 5 of all new created (World Travel & Tourism Council, 2017). The expansion of the tourism sector in Sierra Leone has the potential to generate employment across various sectors. From tour guides and hotel staff to artisans and transportation providers, tourism creates many job opportunities, particularly for the local population. This can help reduce unemployment rates and improve the livelihoods of communities dependent on the industry.
ย Preservation of Natural Habitats and Cultural Heritage:
The mountain scenery trails begin in the capital city and pass through the lush tropical rainforest through the peninsular. The gay beaches of Sierra Leone are usually the focal points of the many fabulous year-round events happening in the country. A colourful mix of people, cultures, traditions, history, nature and food is the best way to define Sierra Leone. Talk about the Outamba-Kilimi National and the Tiwai Island Wildlife Sanctuary Park, where hippos, elephants, Gola-Rainforest and reptiles can be seen year-round! Recognising the importance of conservation, the government and local communities have taken steps to protect these ecosystems. Tourism provides an economic incentive for the preservation of natural habitats, as it encourages responsible tourism practices and raises awareness about the environmental value of these areas.
Significance of Beaches and Natural Habitats:
Sierra Leone’s beaches, such as the famous Lumley-Aberdeen Beach in Freetown and the stunning Turtle Islands, are among the nation’s major attractions. Active travellers looking for water sports or activities will be spoilt for choices such as chasing waterfalls, surfing, or simply relaxing. Hiking is one of the best things to do when visiting Freetown and its surroundings. We cannot forget the estuaries and mangroves that are home to the unique birds and aquatic mammals found in the country. The government’s focus on beach tourism development can potentially drive economic growth and job creation in coastal communities.
Challenges
Despite its immense potential, Sierra Leone’s tourism industry faces daunting challenges and roadblocks. One of the primary challenges is the country’s poor regulatory environment and weak policy framework coupled with insufficient institutional capacity and limited access to finance. Additionally, service delivery is poor, and maintenance of touristic sites is not up to par. Also, inadequate infrastructure and widespread rural and urban impoverishment persist despite remarkable strides made by the government. Nonetheless, the country’s most significant challenges are the perception due to its history of civil unrest, Ebola, Mudslides and COVID-19. Overcoming negative stereotypes and promoting Sierra Leone as a safe and welcoming destination requires sustained marketing efforts and effective destination branding.
Conclusion
Tourism offers excellent opportunities for emerging economies such as Sierra Leone’s. It creates jobs, strengthens the local economy, can help conserve natural and cultural assets and traditions, and reduces poverty. A booming tourism industry can help to build infrastructure such as roads, parks, hospitals and schools and therefore, this industry mustn’t be forgotten.
ยฉ๏ธ Laj K
