Geographic Location
Location in Africa: Sierra Leone is located in West Africa, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the southwest, Guinea to the north and northeast, and Liberia to the southeast.
Latitude and Longitude: 8°30′N, 11°30′W
Size: 71,740 square kilometers
Population
Current Population (2025): Estimated at 8.6 million
Economy
GDP (2025):
- Nominal GDP: Approximately $5.5 billion
- GDP per capita: Around $640
National Symbols
Anthem: “High We Exalt Thee, Realm of the Free”
National Pledge: “I pledge my love and loyalty to my country Sierra Leone…”
Culture and Customs
Ethnic Groups: Temne, Mende, Limba, Kono, Krio, and others
Languages: English (official), Krio (widely spoken lingua franca), and various indigenous languages
Religion: Predominantly Islam and Christianity, with interfaith harmony common
Main Airports
Freetown International Airport (Lungi)
Kenema Airport
Bo Airport (limited service)
Popular Tourist Destinations
Freetown: The capital, known for its beaches, Cotton Tree, and colonial architecture
Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary: A conservation site near Freetown
Banana Islands: A group of islands with historical and ecological interest
Tiwai Island Wildlife Sanctuary: Rich in biodiversity and a popular ecotourism site
River No. 2 Beach: One of the most beautiful beaches in West Africa
Events and Festivals
Independence Day (April 27): Celebrates Sierra Leone’s independence from Britain in 1961
Freetown Music Festival: A modern celebration of music, arts, and culture
Eid and Christmas celebrations: Widely observed across religious communities
Practical Information
Calling Code: +232
Country Domain: .sl
Currency: Sierra Leonean Leone (SLE)