Leicester Peak, Tacugama Centre Showcase Sierra Leone’s Sustainable Tourism Strategy
Sierra Leone‘s Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs is accelerating its tourism sector transformation with two flagship eco-tourism projects that underscore the nation’s commitment to sustainable development and economic diversification.
Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs Nabeela Farida Tunis recently accompanied Vice President Dr. Mohammed Juldeh Jalloh on an inspection tour of Leicester Peak Viewing Point and the Tacugama Experience Innovation Centre, both pivotal components of the country’s tourism infrastructure expansion strategy.
Leicester Peak: Recreation Meets Panoramic Beauty
Leicester Peak has been developed as a recreational and educational destination offering sweeping panoramic views of Freetown. The facility caters to diverse visitor needs with integrated retail spaces and amenities designed to enhance the overall visitor experience while supporting local economic activity.
Tacugama Innovation Centre: Multi-Purpose Eco-Tourism Hub
The centerpiece of this development initiative, the Tacugama Experience Innovation Centre, represents a comprehensive approach to modern tourism infrastructure. The multi-purpose complex features:
- An amphitheatre and cinema for cultural and entertainment programming
- Restaurant and library facilities
- Conference and classroom spaces for educational and business functions
- Hiking trails and observation points for nature-based tourism
- Family-friendly recreational areas
- A butterfly dome and curated natural habitats for ecological engagement
- Conservation education and environmental awareness programming
Setting Regional Standards for Sustainability
A defining achievement of the Tacugama project is its EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) certification—making it Sierra Leone’s second EDGE-certified building. This recognition positions the facility as a regional flagship for sustainable tourism development and demonstrates the country’s alignment with international environmental standards.
The project is supported by the Sierra Leone Economic Diversification Project, funded by the World Bank, reflecting a strategic partnership approach to tourism development.
Economic and Social Impact
Minister Tunis emphasized that these investments serve multiple objectives: strengthening tourism infrastructure, enhancing visitor experiences, stimulating sustainable economic growth, and creating meaningful employment opportunities. The Tacugama centre’s focus on conservation education particularly targets younger generations, building long-term environmental stewardship.
The Ministry has extended an invitation to investors to participate in developing Sierra Leone’s tourism economy through strategic partnerships anchored in sustainability and innovation, positioning the nation as an emerging destination for high-value, responsible tourism.
