By Ragan M. Conteh

In a significant engagement in the chambers of Parliament, the Minister of Tourism, Nabella Tunis has informed Members of the Parliamentary Committee on Tourism and Cultural Affairs headed by Hon. Tom Tucker that “2025 is a year of ecotourism.”

According to her, the ecotourism marks a fresh chapter in Sierra Leone’s tourism development.

This initiative conceived by the minister, represents a bold step towards promoting sustainable tourism practices that safeguard the nation’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

She stated that the ecotourism reflects a commitment to ensuring that tourism serves as a tool for conservation, community empowerment, and economic growth.

To consolidate last year’s achievements, Madam Tunis said as a ministry they have organized series of engagements on consolidating the gains.

“Tourism for All” campaign laid a solid foundation for Sierra Leone’s tourism development,” she proudly added.

The minister maintained that last year’s successes were outlined, including strides in infrastructure development, community engagement, and global promotion of Sierra Leone as an emerging destination.

She told MPs that these milestones now serve as the springboard for the ambitious goals of the year of ecotourism, 2025.

Madam Tunis further emphasized that this is a year of Ecotourism, which marks the beginning of a transformative journey for the tourism sector.

She informed that the discussions with MPs in the Committee of Tourism focused on opportunities, possible challenges, and actionable strategies to ensure the campaign’s success.

She highlighted key priorities mapped out including strengthening partnerships with local communities and the private sector, promoting eco-friendly tourism practices, and enhancing Sierra Leone’s visibility as a top ecotourism destination.

She emphasized on the new campaign which has designed to be more than a celebration of the country’s natural and cultural treasures.

She therefore encourages all stakeholders especially the Committee on Tourism to unite in promoting responsible travel and ensuring that tourism benefits every segment of society.

Madam Tunis insisted that ecotourism also balances growth with environmental preservation and cultural integrity.

As the campaign unfolds, she stated that the groundwork already laid will guide the journey ahead. Minister Nabeela Farida Tunis buttressed the importance of collaboration, commitment, innovation, and determination in achieving the vision of the Year of Ecotourism.

She encouraged all to support the efforts to redefine Sierra Leone’s tourism sector, creating a legacy that will benefit future generations.

The Minister also discussed range of issues as well as achievements of the ministry over the year while also outlining the planned activities in 2025.

Notwithstanding, the Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Hon. Tom Tucker said the reasons for the engagement with officials of the Ministry is to acquaint with what is happening in the Ministry.

The MP said the discussions marks the beginning of strong collaboration between Parliament and the Committee to know the challenges faced by the ministry to find amicable to address them.

Other MPs laud the ministry’s commitment in boosting the tourism industry in the country.

However, MPs spoke on challenges that have the tendency to derail the tourism sector and how they can be addressed through partnership with their committee.