The Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Nabeela Farida Tunis, has called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to advance Sierra Leone’s tourism sector. She made this appeal during the National Coastal Unity Boat Race held on April 4-5, 2026, at Chapter One Beachfront in Aberdeen.
The event brought together 16 coastal communities, including King Jimmy, Susan’s Bay, Kroo Bay, Government Wharf, River No. 2, Tombo Wharf, Tambacula Wharf, Kissy Ferry Terminal, Goderich, Congo Town, Moa Wharf, Murray Town, Banana Water, Lakka Wharf, Magazine Wharf, and Levuma Wharf. It served as a vibrant platform for promoting unity, cultural expression, creativity, inclusivity, and community pride.
Organized by the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs in collaboration with the GEED Foundation and its partners, the competition attracted large crowds. Supporters turned out in groups, singing, dancing, and cheering enthusiastically for their respective communities.
At the end of the competition, Kissy Ferry Terminal emerged as the winner, receiving a cash prize of NLe 50,000 along with other rewards. Susan’s Bay secured the first runner-up position with NLe 40,000, while Moa Wharf placed second runner-up, earning NLe 30,000.
Speaking on behalf of the participants, the Public Relations Officer of Kissy Ferry Terminal Wharf, Mohamed Gatewa, expressed gratitude to Dr. Ekundayo Walton Gilpin and Minister Tunis for recognizing and including coastal communities. He noted that such initiatives are particularly meaningful for communities that often face deprivation.