Tourism Ministry, Tacugama Engage Regent, Bathurst Communities in Eco-Tourism Dialogue
The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, together with Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary, recently enlightened community leaders and stakeholders from Regent and Bathurst on environmental conservation through eco-tourism initiatives, part of July’s Environmental Awareness for Eco-tourism month under the Tourism for All Campaign.
The event focused on promoting sustainable eco-tourism practices and stressing the shared responsibility of Regent and Bathurst communities in safeguarding Sierra Leone’s natural environment and cultural treasures for future generations. Participants, including local leaders and youth representatives, were encouraged to actively support conservation efforts.
During the session, Tamba S. Bundor, Senior Tourist Officer, highlighted human activities posing threats to wildlife and natural resources. Foday Jalloh, Director of Culture, Creativity, and Innovation, emphasized the economic potential of Sierra Leone’s natural beauty and urged preservation efforts. Bala Amarasekaran, Tacugama’s Founder, emphasized the sanctuary’s role and the benefits of preserving Sierra Leone’s biodiversity.
Minister Nabeela Farida Tunis and Permanent Secretary Edward Kwame Yankson joined the engagement, motivating stakeholders to adopt sustainable practices. The event included tours of the sanctuary, offering firsthand eco-tourism experiences and educational sessions on chimpanzee behavior and conservation.
The initiative aimed to deepen stakeholders’ appreciation for eco-tourism’s role in fostering sustainable development and preserving Sierra Leone’s natural and cultural heritage.
