Yesterday 21st September 2024, a large group of staff from the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, the National Tourist Board, the Monument and Relic Commission, Tour Guides, and other partners hiked to the Tecuyama Waterfalls at Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary.

This hike aimed to educate citizens about the importance of preserving the country’s natural beauty, promote domestic tourism, and highlight the pivotal role Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary plays in preserving the forest reserve. Additionally, it sought to foster national cohesion and peace, which are essential for tourism to thrive in any country.

As we approach World Tourism Day, with the theme ‘Tourism and Peace,’ the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs felt it was important to organize this experience, encouraging everyone to wear white as a symbol of unity and peace.

During the hike, Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Nabeela Tunis urged all citizens to visit places like Tacugama, emphasizing that domestic tourism creates jobs,
upholds the country’s dignity, and helps preserve the country’s natural beauty.

In expressing his heartfelt gratitude to the Minister and the entire staff of the ministry, the Founder of Tacugama, Bala Amarasekaran remarked that he has never worked with anyone who makes him feel as comfortable as Minister Nabeela Tunis. He encouraged everyone to take their families and friends to the Sanctuary and to share their experiences on social media, believing that this is how tourism grows.

Permanent Secretary, Edward Kwame Yankson applauded participants for their resolve and commitment during the exercise. He encouraged all to adopt a tourism centric approach and sustainable environmental practices for tourism to blossom.

Source: Sierra Leone News Agency