ONE NATION REGGAE FESTIVAL LAUNCHES NATIONWIDE WITH CULTURAL FANFARE

Ahead of the One Nation Reggae Festival in November this year, Sierra Leone’s cultural calendar is expected to reach a new height today as the One Nation Reggae Festival will be officially launched in Bo, Makeni, 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, will unveil the festival simultaneously across the three cities, underscoring its mission to fuse Sierra Leonean and Caribbean traditions while promoting peace, creativity, and economic growth. At the Valentino Club in Bo, the launch will feature vibrant performances by local reggae bands and cultural troupes. At the same time, Kivas Bar in Makeni is expected to host youth-led showcases highlighting the festival’s role in empowering the next generation of artists. Freetown’s ceremony will be held at the BBQ Box Westend and Fox Bar Eastend, which will be graced by senior officials and industry leaders, who will emphasise 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.