A delegation from the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, and its agencies (National Tourist Board, Monument and Relics Commission) led by the Minister, Mrs. Nabeela Farida Tunis have in their visit to Kabala, Koinadugu district visited the eco-tourism site at Wara Wara mountain and the cultural village of Yagala.
The purpose of the two-day visit was to take the Tourism for All Campaign to the district as well as promote the touristic attractions and the cultural diversity of the district. Partnerships to develop and promote attractions sites were established and arrangements were also made for the training of tour guides in the district.
Prior to the visits to Wara Wara Mountain and Yagala village, the Minister and team through an indigiene of Koinadugu District, Peter Bayuku Conteh paid a courtesy call on Paramount Chief Alie BallaSama Marah the 3rd of Sembeh and Paramount Chief Kondowlay Mansaray the 3rd of Gbawara Wara Wara Yagala Chiefdom.
They heartily welcomed the delegation to the chiefdom saying that they were excited and are looking forward to the development of touristic and cultural products in Koinadugu and Falaba district. They explained the value and richness of their touristic attractions (Bintumani Mountain, Lake Sonfon, wara wara yagala cave) and called on the Ministry to tap on advantages in the district to promote their attractions.
At the eco-tourism site of Wara Wara Mountain, the Minister ascertained that the attraction has unique landscape and it suitable for adventure and agro tourism.
At Yagala village, the team experienced the rich cultural diversity through exhibition and performances of different traditional marriages and cultural shows. The high point of the cultural show was the happiness and willingness of the people to perform their culture. They also explained the significance of old Yagala Limba Slave Resistance Refuge.
Minister Tunis thanked the people of Yagala village for an exceptional exhibition and performance of their rich culture in the real sense. She assured that there will be more visit to the district to promote their diverse cultural talents while encouraging them to continue in that light, as they are not only putting smiles on the faces of people but also creating an impression that Sierra Leoneans can demonstrate their culture.
She called on them to protect their attractions as they will lure more people to come and learn about their cultures. The Minister and team will also engage in other key activities to further integrate the touristic and cultural products of the district as part of the packages for tourists.
The Permanent Secretary, Edward Kwame Yankson, the Deputy Director of Tourism, Idrissa Bangura, the Founder of Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary, Bala Amarasekaran and staff of the Ministry and its agencies were all part of the delegation.
