Over 100 Sierra Leoneans living in the diaspora have under the Root Tourism and Citizenship Programme received orientation on civic education and investment opportunities in Sierra Leone.

The session which was held at Shangri-la Hall, Lumley beach was organised by the Monument and Relics Commission (MRC) under the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs.

The Root Citizen Programme is organised by the Government of Sierra Leone through the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs with the aim of making provision for descendant of formerly enslaved Sierra Leoneans to reclaim their birth right.

The Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Dr. Memunatu Pratt welcomed the Africans and thanked them for returning to the homes of their forefathers. She assured that the people of Sierra Leone are hospitable and friendly and encouraged them to be loyal to the country and obey the laws of the land once they subscribed to the oath of allegiance.

Representative from the various Ministries, Departments and Agencies did presentations on the benefits associated with being a citizen of Sierra Leone.

The African Americans were also orientated on the investment opportunities in Sierra Leone and encouraged to feel at home and explore freedom.

The civic and investment orientation was followed by a reception organised by the Tourism Ministry to honour the African Americans.

The event was held at the Peace and Cultural Museum where they were treated to some of the finest Sierra Leonean cuisine.

The diaspora Sierra Leoneans were also entertained with cultural performances for which they thanked and applauded the ministry for such a warm reception.