Sierra Leone — Students from the Tourism Department of Milton Margai Technical University (MMTU) have embarked on a three-day ecotourism field trip to Tiwai Island Sanctuary and other notable attractions in Bo, Southern Sierra Leone. The excursion, which took place from May 9th to 11th, was organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs as part of its 2025 Ecotourism Initiative aimed at integrating culture, conservation, and community.
Led by university lecturers and supported by ministry officials, the students were provided with a hands-on learning experience designed to deepen their understanding of ecotourism, conservation, and wildlife protection. The visit to Tiwai Island offered a unique opportunity for participants to explore one of Sierra Leone’s premier biodiversity hotspots while gaining practical insights into the significance of ecotourism as a tool for sustainable development.
During the tour, Mohamed Jalloh, Director of Tourism, Travel and Exchange Program, emphasized the importance of ecotourism in fostering environmental consciousness and promoting cultural heritage. Jalloh also outlined ongoing initiatives undertaken by the Ministry and its partners to raise ecotourism awareness and encourage citizens to adopt environmentally friendly practices.
In addition to Tiwai Island, the students made brief educational stops at iconic landmarks including Bo Clock Tower, Bo School, Njala University, and Bush Garden, further enriching their exposure to Sierra Leone’s historic and cultural sites.
The field trip aligns with the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs’ 2025 agenda to position Sierra Leone as a leading ecotourism destination, leveraging its rich natural resources and cultural heritage to promote sustainable tourism.
By James Abu and Umu Bah
Bo,
