By Aminata Abu Bakarr Kamara
Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs Nabeela Farida Tunis
Sierra Leone has solidified its place as Africa’s premier adventure tourism destination, with the ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs announcing on May 9, 2025, that Freetown, has host the finish line of the 2026 Budapest-Bamako Freetown challenge, the world’s largest amateur vehicular rally, the event unveiled a vibrant new logo featuring Sierra Leone’s flag, replacing Mali’s, symbolizing the nation’s rising global prominence.
Under the leadership of His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio and minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs Nabeela Farida Tunis, Sierra Leone has secured hosting rights for the 2026, 2028, and 2030 rally editions, a historic achievement reflecting international trust in the country’s hospitality and infrastructure, this milestone places Sierra Leone firmly on the global tourism map, aligning with our rebranding efforts, the Ministry stated.
The 2026 rally, expected to draw 1,500 participants from over 80 countries, will bring substantial economic benefits, including increased tourism revenue, global media exposure, and strengthened international ties, the event is projected to inject millions into local economies, with participants exploring Freetown and beyond through new tour packages.
The rally, now officially branded the Budapest-Bamako Freetown Challenge, will start in Budapest, traverse European capitals, cross into Africa via Spain and Morocco, and cover over 5,000 kilometres to culminate in Freetown. The journey showcases Sierra Leone’s beauty, resilience, and warm hospitality to a worldwide audience.
Organizers have committed to sustainability, pledging tree-planting campaigns to offset carbon emissions and partnerships with local NGOs, aligning with president Bio’s year of Ecotourism agenda, a top European rock band will join Sierra Leonean artists for electrifying performances, boosting the creative economy.
Sierra Leone’s successful hosting of four rally editions since 2018, welcoming 2,500 adventurers, paved the way for this multi-year deal, the ministry is dedicated to using platforms like the challenge to showcase Sierra Leone globally, said Minister Tunis.
President Bio’s National Strategic Tourism Plan, featuring a visa-free regime, upgraded Lungi Airport, and a 10-year tourism roadmap, underpins this achievement. The 2026 rally is not just a race but a celebration of Sierra Leone’s unstoppable rise as a global adventure hub under Bio’s visionary leadership.
Copy right –Printed in the Expo Times News on Friday, May 12th, 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)