By Foday Sesay
Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs said on Monday it will host the second batch of finish-line events for the 2026 Budapest-Bamako Rally in the capital, Freetown, as the government seeks to position the country as a destination for international sporting and cultural tourism.
The ministry said the overland rally, which starts in Hungary and traverses several African countries, will conclude its second wave of participants in Freetown, with activities planned to showcase Sierra Leone’s tourism potential, culture and hospitality.
Officials said the finish-line events will include a ceremonial reception for rally teams, cultural performances and exhibitions highlighting local arts, cuisine and heritage. The government expects the event to draw international participants, support crews and media, offering an opportunity to promote investment and tourism.
“The rally’s arrival in Freetown provides a platform to present Sierra Leone to a global audience,” the ministry said in a statement, adding that preparations were underway in collaboration with security agencies, local authorities and tourism stakeholders to ensure smooth logistics and safety.
The Budapest-Bamako Rally is known as one of the world’s largest amateur overland rallies, attracting participants who travel thousands of kilometres across Europe and Africa. While competitive in nature, the event also incorporates humanitarian initiatives, with some teams delivering donated supplies to communities along the route.
The ministry did not disclose the expected number of vehicles or participants in the second batch but said coordination meetings were ongoing with rally organisers and local partners.
Sierra Leone has in recent years sought to boost its international image through cultural festivals, beach tourism and heritage promotion, aiming to increase visitor arrivals and diversify its economy.
Further details on the dates and programme of events are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
