Freetown, July 30, 2026 —
Ahead of the One Nation Reggae Festival in November this year, Sierra Leone’s cultural calendar reached a new high as the One Nation Reggae Festival was officially launched in Bo City, Makeni City, and Freetown, marking the start of a nationwide celebration of music, heritage, and unity.
The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, in collaboration with creative industry partners, unveiled the festival simultaneously across the three cities, underscoring its mission to fuse Sierra Leonean and Caribbean traditions, while promoting peace, creativity, and economic growth.
In Bo City (VALENTINO CLUB), the launch featured vibrant performances by local reggae bands and cultural troupes. At the same time, Makeni City (KIVAS BAR) hosted youth-led showcases highlighting the festival’s role in empowering the next generation of artists. Freetown’s ceremony held at the BBQ Box (Westend) and Fox Bar (Eastend), was graced by senior officials and industry leaders, who emphasised the festival’s potential to position Sierra Leone as Africa’s reggae capital.
Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Nabeela Farida Tunis, has described the festival as “a symbol of Sierra Leone’s openness, resilience, and creativity,” noting that its expansion into the regions reflects the government’s commitment to inclusive cultural development.
The One Nation Reggae Festival, which blends live performances, workshops, and international collaborations, is expected to attract global attention, boost tourism, and generate significant revenue for the creative sector.
After the launch, Sierra Leoneans across the country will be set to enjoy weeks of rhythm, culture, and unity, proving that reggae is more than music; it is a movement for national pride and international recognition.