Africa-Press – Sierra-Leone. Chief Minister Dr David Moinina Sengeh has called on both citizens and international visitors to explore the Gola-Tiwai Complex, describing it as one of the country’s most breathtaking natural attractions.
Speaking after a recent visit, Dr Sengeh praised the site’s exceptional beauty and ecological value, encouraging it as a must-visit destination. “The Gola-Tiwai Complex UNESCO World Heritage Site should be your next destination. It’s the most beautiful place I’ve been in a long time,” he said.
He recounted a two-hour walk to the island, noting sightings of the rare Diana monkey, alongside a rich display of birdlife and butterflies. Although pygmy hippos were not spotted during his visit, he highlighted the experience of clean, fresh air and the area’s unspoiled natural environment.
Dr Sengeh emphasised the importance of preserving such ecosystems, warning that environmental degradation poses serious risks to livelihoods and public safety. He pointed to activities such as pollution, unregulated mining, and poor urban planning as key contributors to environmental damage.
“We must protect nature to protect ourselves,” he stated. “When we mine upstream and put mercury or chemicals in the water, the fish downstream are affected and fished out. It’s the same fish that make it back to us. When we build in swamps in the city meant to drain water from our streets, we are hit by flooding.”
He further stressed that environmental protection aligns with the broader development vision of President Julius Maada Bio, particularly in positioning Sierra Leone as a leading eco-tourism destination on the global stage.
The Gola-Tiwai Complex, recently designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its rich biodiversity and remains one of West Africa’s most significant conservation areas.
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