By: Edward Kabba Sesay
Madam Nabeela Farida Tunis stands out as one of Sierra Leone’s most dynamic public servants, championing culture and tourism with passion, vision, and purpose. As Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, she has transformed how Sierra Leone presents its rich heritage and natural beauty to the world, fostering inclusive growth that benefits communities nationwide.
Her leadership has significantly elevated Sierra Leone’s profile both within Africa and on the global stage, with a strong emphasis on sustainable tourism and cultural diplomacy as key drivers of national development.
“Tourism is not just about attracting visitors; it’s about preserving our identity and empowering our communities,” she stated.
Since her appointment, Madam Tunis has spearheaded transformative initiatives that place ecotourism and cultural heritage preservation at the heart of Sierra Leone’s economic strategy. Under her leadership, the Ministry declared 2025 as the “Year of Ecotourism,” a nationwide campaign designed to showcase the country’s ecological treasures while promoting responsible travel practices that directly benefit local communities.
Her innovative and people-centered leadership has earned her widespread recognition across the continent. In 2025, Madam Tunis was honored as Best Minister of Tourism in Africa at the prestigious AKWAABA African Travel Market. She was also named among the Top 100 Travel and Tourism Personalities in Africa, accolades that reflect her commitment to policy innovation, strategic partnerships, and community-driven tourism development.
Madam Tunis firmly believes that tourism should be inclusive and transformative. She has been a strong advocate for women’s leadership in tourism, championing initiatives such as Sierra Leone’s first Women in Tourism Regional Congress. The congress brought together stakeholders from across Africa to discuss gender equality, sustainable tourism, and expanded economic opportunities for women.
Her diplomatic leadership continues to shine at international forums, including the UN Tourism General Assembly and the UN Tourism Africa Conference. At these platforms, Madam Tunis has consistently advocated for the integration of technology, innovation, and cultural heritage into tourism strategies, positioning Sierra Leone as a forward-thinking and reliable partner in global tourism development.
Beyond policy formulation and international advocacy, Madam Tunis remains a hands-on custodian of Sierra Leone’s cultural heritage. She has led delegations to key historical sites, including the Sierra Leone Railway Museum, ensuring that the nation’s heritage assets are preserved for future generations and remain central to the country’s tourism narrative.
Innovation lies at the core of her vision. By promoting smart tourism, Madam Tunis is leveraging digital solutions to enhance visitor experiences, expand global outreach, and encourage environmentally friendly practices. Her efforts are steadily transforming Sierra Leone into a modern tourism destination that seamlessly blends natural beauty with innovation.
Madam Nabeela Farida Tunis’s journey from strategic development roles to becoming a leading voice in African tourism reflects her visionary leadership, resilience, and commitment to inclusivity. By harnessing Sierra Leone’s cultural wealth and tourism potential, she continues to inspire a new generation of leaders and demonstrates the power of culture and heritage as engines of sustainable growth. “Our culture is our legacy; our tourism is our future.” Nabeela Farida Tunis said.