The Deputy Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs of Sierra Leone, Dr. Kadijatu Grace Kamara, has been honoured with a prestigious award at the 15th Professional and Career Women Global Awards held in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
The ceremony, which celebrates outstanding women leaders making global impact, brought together distinguished personalities from around the world. Dr. Kamara, who is also the founder of the SheArose Foundation, was recognized for her remarkable contributions to sustainable tourism, cultural preservation, psychology, and women’s empowerment.
Speaking at the Women in Management Conference during the event, Dr. Kamara described ecotourism as “a philosophy of coexistence where people, planet, and prosperity thrive together.”
“In an age where our planet’s well-being is under increasing pressure, ecotourism offers a refreshing balance — a way to experience the world while preserving it,” she said.
“In Sierra Leone, our lush forests, serene beaches, and cultural heritage present enormous opportunities for sustainable tourism that uplifts local communities while protecting biodiversity. When visitors experience our landscapes through an ecological lens — staying in community-run lodges, enjoying local cuisines, and learning indigenous crafts — they become partners in preservation, not just consumers of experience.”
Dr. Kamara emphasized that for ecotourism to flourish, it must rest on three foundational pillars:
Education: equipping both tourists and locals with conservation knowledge;
Empowerment: ensuring local communities are the main beneficiaries and custodians of their environments; and
Ethical Practice: fostering tourism models that honor both nature and culture.
She further noted that ecotourism serves as a vital bridge between development and responsibility, adding that Africa, with its vast natural beauty and cultural richness, has the potential to lead the global movement toward sustainable tourism.
Expressing gratitude for the international recognition, Dr. Kamara remarked:
“I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition. It is not just a personal milestone, but a reflection of the dedication of our team and all those who continue to believe in the power of tourism as a catalyst for sustainable development. As we celebrate this achievement, I am reminded that there is still much work ahead. Together, we can harness the potential of ecotourism to promote inclusive growth, empower communities, and safeguard our planet for generations to come.”
Looking ahead, Dr. Kamara reaffirmed her commitment to building strategic partnerships with individuals and organizations that share her vision of responsible tourism — one that promotes environmental stewardship, strengthens cultural identity, and enhances livelihoods across Africa and beyond.
