In a move aimed at reshaping the narrative of Sierra Leone’s tourism sector, the Women in Tourism Leadership Africa Committee (WiTLAC), in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs and its agencies, has concluded a two-day intensive training program for media professionals.
The workshop, titled “Empowering Sierra Leonean Journalists for Sustainable Tourism Reporting,” brought together 26 female journalists, bloggers, and media practitioners. The initiative focused on equipping participants with the skills needed to produce in-depth, compelling, and sustainable tourism stories for both local and international audiences.
Sierra Leone’s Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs Nabeela Farida Tunis said the conclusion of the two-day training represents a deliberate investment in strengthening the voices shaping Sierra Leone’s tourism narrative. She noted that bringing together 30 female media practitioners from across 30 outlets reflects a strong commitment to raising professional standards in tourism communication.
She added that the programme, delivered through the Women in Tourism Leadership Africa Committee (WiTLAC), builds on ongoing efforts to expand opportunities for women and enhance their influence across the sector, while maintaining momentum from the 2024 Regional Congress in Freetown.
The training sought to move beyond surface-level reporting by encouraging participants to explore diverse perspectives within the tourism sector, while maintaining professional journalistic standards and incorporating authentic Sierra Leonean storytelling.
The sessions were led by two facilitators who combined local expertise with international experience. Sierra Leone-based consultant Howard guided participants on capturing authentic local narratives, emphasizing storytelling that reflects the country’s heritage and identity. Meanwhile, Kingsley Uranta, General Manager of Channels Television and Channels Academy, introduced global reporting standards through practical exercises and group work aimed at strengthening technical skills.
The training also included a field visit to Lumley Beach Arts and Craft Market, where participants applied their learning in a real-world setting. The market served as a live case study, allowing journalists to create digital content such as social media reels while showcasing local craftsmanship and cultural heritage.
The program concluded with a certification ceremony led by Fatmata Samura, recognizing participants for their commitment and progress. Certificates were presented by officials including the General Manager of the National Tourist Board, representatives from the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, and the Sierra Leone Commercial Bank, highlighting broad institutional support for tourism development and women’s empowerment.
Stakeholders say the initiative marks a step forward in strengthening the role of women in media and positioning tourism as a key driver of national growth.
As the trained journalists return to their respective platforms, expectations are high that their enhanced storytelling skills will contribute to a more dynamic and authentic portrayal of Sierra Leone’s tourism sector on the global stage.
