03/19/2026
Sixteen coastal communities across the Western Area Rural and Urban districts are set to participate in the Coastal Unity Boat Race.
Organized by the GEED Foundation and supported by the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Rokel Commercial Bank, and Africell, the Coastal Unity Boat Race is designed to position boat riding as a structured tourism product while fostering community cohesion, youth engagement, and tourism development.
Notably, this marks the first time an event of this nature is specifically targeting coastal communities in the Western Area. So far, fifteen communities have confirmed participation: Government Wharf, Kissy Ferry Terminal, Susan’s Bay, Congo Town, Moa Wharf, Tombo, Aberdeen, King Jimmy, Funkia, Levuma, No. 2 River, Lakka, Magazine, and Kroo Bay and Banana Water.
Scheduled for the 4th and 5th of April 2026, the Coastal Unity Boat Race aligns seamlessly with the Year of Culture and Creativity. Beyond competition, it serves as a platform to highlight the resilience of coastal communities in the face of evident environmental challenges, while also shining a light on the rich and time-honored tradition of canoe and boat riding.
The winning team will receive NLe 50,000, the first runner-up NLe 40,000, and the second runner-up NLe 30,000. In addition, special recognition will be awarded for the three most creative flags, presented by the Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Nabeela Farida Tunis.
The Coastal Unity Boat Race promises to be more than just a competition it is a celebration of culture, unity, and innovation along Sierra Leone’s coastline, setting the stage for a new and vibrant community driven tourism experience.