As part of May's Culture and Heritage Month celebrations, the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs in Sierra Leone has launched the inaugural "Culture and Heritage Open Air Carnival." This event, a highlight of the ongoing "Tourism for All Campaign," showcased the nation's rich cultural tapestry through a variety of artistic performances and displays.

The carnival was a vibrant celebration of Sierra Leonean culture, attracting attendees from government, private sector, development partners, and the diplomatic community. This diverse turnout underscored the event's significance in promoting national heritage and fostering cultural pride.

The concept for the Open Air Carnival originated with Minister Nabeela Tunis and the Ministry's Directorate of Culture, Creativity, and Innovation during the Sierra Leone Reggae Union's Bob Marley Night commemoration. The carnival aimed to promote Sierra Leonean culture, support local businesses, enhance national unity, and disseminate the messages of the Tourism for All Campaign.

Attendees were treated to exhibitions of traditional Sierra Leonean attire and crafts by vendors such as NTB and MRC. The culinary offerings were equally impressive, featuring local delicacies like fried fish, oleleh, yebbeh, huntu, rice akara and beans, groundnut soup with mina, and fruits like malombo and sugar cane, emphasizing the event's focus on local content.

Entertainment was provided by an array of high-profile Sierra Leonean artists, including Steady Bongo, Amie Kallon, Kao Denero, Star Zero, Artical Foryoh, Alieu Melody, Kiddo Armani, Faculty, Richie Obama, Speedo, and Tima Hyder. Their performances, along with displays from cultural groups, acrobats, and comedians, captivated the enthusiastic audience. Special recognition was given to popular singer Base Aphonyx for providing the musical setup.

The Culture and Heritage Open Air Carnival was a groundbreaking initiative by the Ministry, setting a precedent for future events aimed at celebrating and preserving Sierra Leone’s cultural heritage. It succeeded in highlighting the nation’s unique cultural assets and fostering a greater appreciation among its people.