Sierra Leone Targets Encroachment Around Tacugama Sanctuary to Boost Ecotourism

The Government of Sierra Leone, through its Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, has launched a bold initiative to combat illegal encroachment on the 6,000-hectare Tourism Development Area (TDA) surrounding the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary (TCS). This measure underscores the government’s dedication to preserving biodiversity while fostering sustainable tourism development.

Collaborating with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the National Protected Area Authority (NPAA), and local leadership, the Ministry conducted an on-site assessment to evaluate the impact of illegal land use on the sanctuary. This activity is part of a broader strategy to strengthen enforcement, protect the area’s unique ecosystems, and engage communities in conservation efforts.

Tackling Threats to Conservation and Tourism

Encroachment poses a significant threat to protected areas across Africa, leading to deforestation, habitat destruction, and increased risk of wildfires. These challenges endanger wildlife and undermine the potential of ecotourism in Sierra Leone. During the visit, the government issued a zero-tolerance policy on unauthorized land use within the TDA, sending a clear message to land grabbers and illegal developers.

To reinforce protection efforts, signposts marking forest reserve boundaries have been installed around the sanctuary. These serve as both a deterrent and an awareness tool, ensuring that local stakeholders and the public recognize the area’s protected status.

Community Engagement: A Cornerstone of Conservation

While enforcement is crucial, the Ministry is equally focused on community engagement. Minister Nabeela Tunis held discussions with local leaders, emphasizing Tacugama’s importance as more than just a wildlife sanctuary. It is a driver of sustainable livelihoods, biodiversity preservation, and tourism development. The dialogue aimed to foster stronger community participation in conservation efforts while ensuring local residents benefit from the growing ecotourism industry.

This initiative aligns with Sierra Leone’s Year of Ecotourism 2025 agenda, which positions the country as a leader in responsible tourism. By addressing conservation challenges proactively, the government seeks to enhance Sierra Leone’s reputation as a top ecotourism destination, bringing long-term economic benefits to local communities.

Tacugama: A Beacon of Conservation and Tourism

The Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary is a cornerstone of Sierra Leone’s conservation efforts. Beyond serving as a haven for endangered chimpanzees, it plays a critical role in environmental education, wildlife protection, and community-driven tourism initiatives. As a major ecotourism attraction, Tacugama draws international attention, contributing to both wildlife conservation and the local economy.

Lessons for Africa: Aligning Tourism Growth with Conservation

Sierra Leone’s proactive stance highlights a growing trend across Africa: the need to balance natural resource protection with tourism development. By combining policy enforcement with local collaboration, the government is setting a benchmark for how conservation initiatives can align with economic growth strategies.

For African travel agents, this initiative offers an opportunity to showcase Tacugama and Sierra Leone’s broader ecotourism potential to international and domestic travelers. With its unique wildlife, lush landscapes, and commitment to sustainability, Sierra Leone is positioning itself as a must-visit destination for responsible tourism.

This intervention signals Sierra Leone’s dedication to harnessing ecotourism as a tool for development, ensuring that both the environment and local communities thrive. By protecting its natural assets, the country is paving the way for a sustainable tourism future that benefits all stakeholders