The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, together with its agencies, has officially unveiled the logo for the Year of Culture and Creativity 2026. More than a visual identity, the logo represents Sierra Leone’s national pride and collective commitment to celebrating its people, traditions, skills, and creative energy as key drivers of unity, cultural identity, and sustainable development.
Designed with bold brush strokes in the national colours, the logo places everyday cultural makers at its centre woodcarvers, drummers, and country-cloth weavers symbolizing heritage craftsmanship, innovation, and knowledge passed down through generations. The branding also reflects the importance of food and local cuisine as living expressions of culture that unite communities and proudly present Sierra Leone to the world. Its handcrafted typography and inclusive imagery reinforce a “by-the-people” movement, underscoring that the Year of Culture and Creativity belongs to all Sierra Leoneans and partners.
Delivering the opening remarks, the Senior Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Judith C. Jones, noted that the initiative conceived by Minister Nabeela Farida Tunis aims to promote tourism, contribute to economic development, and extend opportunities to communities across the provinces. She emphasized the importance of showcasing Sierra Leone’s rich cultural heritage, reviving fading traditions, and positioning the country as a preferred international destination, while calling on the media to help project a positive image of the nation globally.
In her remarks, the Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Madam Nabeela Farida Tunis, explained that the event marked the formal unveiling of the logo, which will serve as the official identity guiding all activities throughout the Year of Culture and Creativity. She stressed that national initiatives require clarity and a shared symbol that citizens can recognize, adopt, and rally behind.
The Minister further highlighted that the initiative builds on previous campaigns and aligns with national and international frameworks, placing culture and creativity at the centre of livelihoods, dignity, national pride, and economic participation. She emphasized the importance of recognizing artisans, performers, designers, event planners, and creative entrepreneurs as contributors to national growth and social cohesion. She also encouraged creative practitioners to register with the Ministry free of charge to strengthen data collection, partnerships, and access to opportunities. She reaffirmed the Government’s commitment, under the leadership of President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, to collaboration and partnership in delivering a successful Year of Culture and Creativity.
As part of the programme, a short video showcasing the creation of the logo was screened, while the Directorate of Culture, Creativity and Innovation presented a skit depicting the origins and unique attributes of Sierra Leone’s ethnic groups.
The Deputy Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Madam Kadijatu Grace Ahene Kamara, delivered a vote of thanks, expressing appreciation to all participants and partners and reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to inclusive collaboration throughout the Year of Culture and Creativity.