In complementing the Ministry of Tourism’s ongoing efforts to rebrand the creative sector and nurture talents to become job creators, innovators, and cultural ambassadors of Sierra Leone, Creative Hub Africa, with support from the World Bank, European Union, C-Jet, and Finance for Development, has officially launched the Sierra Leone Creative Economy Diagnostic Report at Creative Hub Africa in Freetown.
The creative economy in Sierra Leone holds immense potential, already contributing approximately 4.5% to the national GDP and accounting for over 10% of all jobs. The newly launched report offers a comprehensive analysis of the structure, performance, and future opportunities within the sector. It serves as a strategic roadmap for growth, innovation, and investment.
Hon. Nabeela Farida Tunis, Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, who served as both the launcher and keynote speaker, expressed her excitement not only for the launch of the report but also for the 24 young creatives who graduated from the Creatifi Pilot Program—an initiative offering training and mentorship to emerging talents.
In her address, Minister Tunis highlighted the high value placed by the Bio-led government on the creative and tourism sectors. She noted that the 2019–2023 National Development Plan identified tourism as a key pillar for economic diversification and growth. This commitment has been reaffirmed in the 2024–2030 National Development Plan, where the sector is recognized as a critical enabler in achieving the government’s five key game changers.
Despite often being overlooked, the Minister reiterated that the creative sector contributes significantly to national development. “The report clearly states that the sector contributes 4.5% to GDP and accounts for over 10% of jobs—this is extraordinary,” she noted, emphasizing the untapped potential of the sector.
Minister Tunis also outlined the government’s extensive efforts to revitalize the creative industry through policy development, rebranding initiatives, investment in physical infrastructure, capacity building, and community engagement. She underscored the importance of strategic partnerships to drive sustainable tourism and sector-wide growth.
Deputy Minister of Tourism, Khadijatu Grace Kamara, participating in a panel discussion, spoke on the Ministry’s continued support for young talents, especially in branding and showcasing their unique products to broader markets.
Other speakers, including the Creative Director of Creative Hub Africa Isatu Harrison stressed the economic impact of the creative sector and the importance of the diagnostic report in helping creatives reach their full potential.
The launch marks a significant milestone in Sierra Leone’s journey towards building a robust, inclusive, and economically vibrant creative industry.
