Sierra Leone
Subregion: Western Africa
Sierra Leone is a country located in Western Africa. The Capital City is Freetown. The government is a Unitary presidential republic. The official language of the country is English. The common language of the country is Kriol. The predominant religion is Islam. The healthcare system in Sierra Leone has two branches of care, public and private. The public sector is split into two tiers, one for primary care and the other for secondary care (including referral hospitals). The private sector has over 40 private clinics and 30 private hospitals located in the urban areas.
Safety:
Sierra Leone has made significant progress in terms of safety and security since the end of the civil war in 2002, but there are still safety concerns in some areas of the country. One of the main safety concerns in Sierra Leone is crime, particularly in urban areas like Freetown. Petty crime such as pickpocketing and theft is common, and there have been reports of armed robbery and carjacking. Visitors should be vigilant and take precautions such as not carrying large amounts of cash or wearing expensive jewelry. There is also a risk of terrorism in Sierra Leone, although the threat level is generally low. Visitors should be aware of their surroundings and follow the guidance of local authorities. Another safety concern in Sierra Leone is the risk of natural disasters, particularly during the rainy season (May to November). Flooding and landslides can occur, and road travel can become hazardous. There is a risk of infectious diseases in Sierra Leone, including malaria, typhoid, and cholera. Visitors should take precautions such as using insect repellent, drinking bottled or purified water, and getting the necessary vaccinations before traveling to the country. Sierra Leone is a country in West Africa with a diverse range of road conditions and safety concerns. While some areas have relatively good road infrastructure, many parts of the country have poor road conditions, including unpaved roads with potholes and other hazards. Additionally, due to the mountainous terrain in some areas, roads can be steep and winding, making driving more difficult. Road safety is a concern in Sierra Leone, as there is a high incidence of road accidents. Many vehicles on the roads are old and poorly maintained, and drivers often do not follow traffic rules and regulations. Pedestrians and cyclists are also at risk, as sidewalks and bike lanes are often nonexistent, and drivers may not be used to sharing the road with them. In recent years, the government of Sierra Leone has taken steps to improve road safety, including introducing new traffic laws and regulations and cracking down on dangerous driving practices. However, more work is needed to make the roads in Sierra Leone safer and more accessible for all users.
Cultural Customs:
Sierra Leone is a West African country with a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its customs and traditions. Sierra Leoneans are known for their vibrant and colorful clothing, often made from traditional fabrics such as cotton and tie-dye. Men often wear long, flowing robes called boubous, while women wear brightly colored head wraps, dresses, and skirts. Music and dance are an integral part of Sierra Leonean culture. The country is known for its unique blend of traditional African rhythms and modern Western styles, with popular music genres such as highlife, afrobeat, and reggae. Sierra Leonean cuisine is diverse and influenced by the country's various ethnic groups. Common dishes include cassava leaf stew, jollof rice, and akara (bean cakes). Eating together is an important aspect of Sierra Leonean culture, with meals often shared with family and friends. Sierra Leone is a predominantly Muslim country, with a significant Christian minority. Religious practices and customs are an important part of daily life, with mosques and churches playing a central role in the community. Sierra Leoneans place great importance on traditional ceremonies and rituals, including initiation ceremonies, weddings, and funerals. These events often involve music, dance, and elaborate costumes, and are seen as an opportunity to celebrate the country's cultural heritage and traditions. Respect for elders is deeply ingrained in Sierra Leonean culture, with young people expected to show deference to their elders at all times. This includes using formal language and making physical gestures of respect, such as bowing or curtsying. Sierra Leoneans place a strong emphasis on community values, with a sense of collective responsibility and obligation to help others in need. This is reflected in the country's traditional social structures, such as the extended family and clan systems, which emphasize mutual support and cooperation.
Geography & Weather:
The climate in Sierra Leone is tropical with distinct rainy and dry seasons.
In the city of Freetown, on the coast of the country, the average temperature is 80 degrees Fahrenheit, all year. Monsoon season in this area is from May - November. The Harmattan occurs from December - February. The sun shines more in the winter than in the summer. The sea temperature is 82 degrees F, year round.
Economy:
Sierra Leone’s economy is heavily reliant on agriculture, which accounts for about two-thirds of the country's GDP. Other important sectors include mining, fishing, and forestry. Despite having significant mineral resources, including diamonds, bauxite, and gold, the country's economy has been hindered by a long history of civil war and political instability. Additionally, the Ebola virus outbreak in 2014-2015 had a significant impact on the country's economy. In recent years, the Sierra Leonean government has made efforts to attract foreign investment, particularly in the mining sector. The country has also implemented economic reforms, including the introduction of a goods and services tax (GST) and the removal of import tariffs on many goods. However, poverty and unemployment remain major challenges for the country. As of 2021, the GDP per capita of Sierra Leone is estimated to be around $500, making it one of the poorest countries in the world. The country also faces significant challenges related to infrastructure development, access to education and healthcare, and corruption.
Currency/Foreign Exchange Rate:
Sierra Leonean Leone (SLL)
SLL 1.00 = USD .000057
Country Stats:
Population (2020):
7,976,983
Median Age:
19.4
Life Expectancy:
55.92
Visa Requirements:
Needed for Entry for US Citizens? Yes
Cost: Tourist Visa, multiple entry, 3 years $160
*Additional Information*
Yellow fever vaccination on WHO Yellow Card is required for entry. The card should be carried with you at all times.
Citizenship Requirements:
Dual citizenship - Yes
Naturalization - Sierra Leonean citizenship may be acquired upon fulfillment of the following conditions: Person has resided in Sierra Leone for at least eight consecutive years (based on Negro descent), have sufficient knowledge of Kriol, is of good character, and is able to contribute to the betterment of the country.
Residency Requirements:
A residency permit is available for people looking to relocate into Sierra Leone as expats. You must have your tourist visa and apply at the Immigration Department.
Resources:
U.S. Embassy Freetown
Southridge, Hill Station
Freetown, Sierra Leone
Telephone: (+232) 99-105-000
Emergency after-hours telephone: (+232) 99-905-029
Email: ConsularFreetown@state.gov