By: Mohamed Sahr mohamedsahrpro@gmail.com
Harmony Travel and Tourism Investment Services Sierra Leone (HATTIS-SL) recently organized its inaugural hiking event to Bambawo village in Nongowa Chiefdom, Kenema District, as part of its efforts to promote domestic tourism at the regional and district levels.
Anthony Moiforay, CEO of HATTIS-SL, highlighted the objectives of the hike, emphasizing the importance of bringing together heads of corporate institutions and government agencies to foster networking and fitness. Additionally, the event aimed to rebrand Bambawo village as a historic community in Sierra Leone, given its significant role in the discovery of chlomite in the 1930s.
Moiforay acknowledged the challenges faced in a previous incident and expressed the organization’s commitment to learning from those experiences for future events. He announced the intention to make the hiking event an annual tradition, providing an opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the region.
Calling on stakeholders, community members, and Sierra Leoneans, Moiforay urged everyone to recognize the value of domestic tourism and contribute to showcasing Bambawo to the international community and development partners.
David Morray Lumeh, Acting Chief of Bambawo village, expressed satisfaction with the event organized by HATTIS-SL, describing it as a means of reintroducing and reconnecting Bambawo Village to the world. Lumeh highlighted the small population of Bambawo, consisting of various age groups, and noted the village’s rich history and mineral endowments.
Micheal Yambasu, HATTIS-SL Secretary General and Marketing Director, emphasized the diverse history of Bambawo and its status as a “prosperous and blessed community.” He underlined the positive effects of hiking on well-being, fitness, and interaction, and called on authorities and international communities to invest in Sierra Leone’s tourism for its economic and social benefits.
The hiking event featured participation from various government and private institutions, including the Electricity Generation and Transmission Company (EGTC) and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, contributing to the promotion of Sierra Leone’s rich culture.
Dr. Donald Grant, Kenema District Medical Officer, encouraged Sierra Leoneans to prioritize regular exercise for maintaining good health. He expressed gratitude to HATTIS-SL for providing an opportunity to experience the eco-friendly environment, promoting relaxation and vitality.
Massah Amara, a resident of Bambawo village, expressed appreciation for the event and encouraged HATTIS-SL to continue organizing similar activities. Yatta Samu, a student and Bambawo resident, applauded the outcome of the event and urged HATTIS-SL to invest further in domestic tourism.