Minister of Agriculture, Joseph Ndanema in an exclusive interview told AYV that the event in Bonthe is about showcasing to the rest of the world the rich touristic potential of Bonthe Island which he regrettably said has been neglected for far too long.
He said: “Everything about agriculture, has to do with culture and after this year’s event, the long stereotype against Bonthe Island will change as the people are ready to give the best in terms of their cultural and other display.” He added that the people of Bonthe Island are more than willing to give up their private homes just to accommodate those that will be coming to attend the event. He went to say that His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio is expecting more than one thousand people to attend the event in Bonthe Island.
According to the Agriculture Minister, Bonthe Island and Kabala have been chosen for this year’s celebration and that the event in Kabala will take place from the 29th to the 31st December this year.
Minister Ndanema said: “I want to assure that over twenty five powered engine boats will be available during the event and a ferry service will also be ready to take tourists to the various islands and relics center.”
A member of the Planning Committee, Mohamed Barrie stated that the headquarters of Paterson Zochonis (PZ) and a host of other French companies had presence in Bonthe and that during the Second World War Queen Elizabeth came and sought refuge in Bonthe. He added: “That was where we have today the Church of England. But much hasn’t been done to tell the world the true picture of Bonthe Island and the history of monuments and relics in Sierra Leone will never be complete without mentioning Bonthe District and its prestigious islands.”
