Sierra Leone Inaugurates One Nation Reggae Festival and Permanent Cultural Village

Sierra Leone Inaugurates One Nation Reggae Festival and Permanent Cultural Village

The One Nation Reggae Festival officially commenced on November 25th with a prominent launch event at the Bintumani Hotel in Freetown, spearheaded by the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs. The six-day festival, running through November 30th across the Western Area, is designed to foster cultural exchange, empower the arts, and elevate Sierra Leone's international tourism profile.

A key component of the opening ceremony was the unveiling of a dedicated cultural village in Regent. This initiative is envisioned as a permanent landmark platform for cultural education, creative collaboration, and the sustained development of local arts well beyond the duration of the festival.

Minister of Tourism, Hon. Nabeela Tunis, highlighted the ministry's accomplishments and outlined the purpose of the cultural village. She stated, "This festival transcends music; it is a celebration of our heritage and an effort to build international bridges." The Minister announced that 50 percent of the festival's six-day profits will be channeled directly to the local community, with a further 20 percent allocated to support vulnerable groups.

Furthermore, the ministry plans to establish a creative village to nurture young artistic talents. Minister Tunis extended her gratitude to the Ministry of Lands and the Ministry of Social Welfare for their support, and acknowledged President Julius Maada Bio for his leadership, which provides the courage, direction, and wisdom guiding the advancement of tourism in Sierra Leone.

Mayor of Freetown, Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr OBE, welcomed the international musicians, emphasizing the festival's dual significance in both attracting performers to Sierra Leone and reconnecting them with their cultural origins. She underscored that reggae music is "not merely about the melody; it is about the lyrics: words of revolution, love, hope, and a more promising future."

Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the government, Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh asserted that the festival symbolizes more than just music, culture, and interpersonal exchange. "When we consider one nation, unity, that is the essence of Sierra Leone," he remarked.

He detailed how diversifying the tourism sector and positioning Sierra Leone as a dynamic global destination are integral to the country’s national development plan. Dr. Sengeh also cited the successful listing of a site as a UNESCO heritage location during the eco-tourism year, stressing the national commitment to sustainability—protecting people and the environment while simultaneously generating economic benefit.

He encouraged young creatives to commit to diligent practice, noting, "Culture is not an innate or academic acquisition. To become a superstar artist, you must dedicate yourself to practice."

The launch event was attended by government ministers, students, local artists, and a host of international performers, including Sizzla Kalonji, Christopher Martin, Queen Ifrica, Jah Thunder, Arqane, Danny Bless, and Mama G Simms. Prominent local artists, such as members of the Reggae Union and UK-based Sierra Leonean rapper Tony As, were also present.

With significant international participation and robust government endorsement, the One Nation Reggae Festival is firmly established as both a major musical gathering and a vital platform for showcasing Sierra Leone’s national heritage, creative spirit, and unwavering commitment to unity.