LocationsUNDP breaks ground for the construction of the first-ever canopy walkway in Sierra Leone
August 27, 2025
UNDP Sierra Leone's Resident Representative , Fredrick Ampiah breaks ground for the construction of Sierra Leone's Canopy first Walkway at Tacugama
Founded more than three decades ago, Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary has become a symbol of biodiversity protection and eco-tourism. Its founder, Bala Amarasekaran, welcomed the project with excitement:
“The canopy walkway will offer unique experiences for both citizens and tourists, while strengthening our mission to protect and celebrate Sierra Leone’s natural heritage.”
The initiative also reinforces Sierra Leone’s commitment to global environmental frameworks such as the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands. At the ceremony, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Jiwoh Abdulai, stressed the importance of safeguarding Tacugama:
“We must remain determined to protect this asset for both present and future generations.”
UNDP Sierra Leone has officially broken ground on the country’s first-ever canopy walkway at the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary, nestled within the scenic Western Area Peninsula forest.
This landmark project represents a major step forward in Sierra Leone’s ambition to position itself as a premier eco-tourism destination. It is part of broader efforts to diversify the economy and strengthen the tourism sector, complementing ongoing initiatives such as the World Bank–supported Sierra Leone Economic Diversification Project.
Tourism is an emerging driver of Sierra Leone’s growth, currently contributing about 2.6 percent of GDP and providing over 41,000 jobs nationwide. The canopy walkway is expected to enhance Sierra Leone’s tourism appeal, creating new opportunities for communities while reinforcing conservation of one of the country’s most treasured natural assets.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, UNDP Resident Representative, Frederick Ampiah, emphasized the project’s transformative potential:
“The Tacugama walkway will enhance conservation of the ecosystem, create direct and indirect benefits for communities, and place Sierra Leone firmly on the map of global eco-tourism.”
UNDP Sierra Leone's Resident Representative , Fredrick Ampiah speaking at the groundbreaking for the construction of Sierra Leone's First Canopy Walkway at Tacugama
Founded more than three decades ago, Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary has become a symbol of biodiversity protection and eco-tourism. Its founder, Bala Amarasekaran, welcomed the project with excitement, “The canopy walkway will offer unique experiences for both citizens and tourists, while strengthening our mission to protect and celebrate Sierra Leone’s natural heritage.”
Bala Amarasekaran, Founder of Tacugama
The initiative also reinforces Sierra Leone’s commitment to global environmental frameworks such as the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands. At the ceremony, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Jiwoh Abdulai, stressed the importance of safeguarding Tacugama, “We must remain determined to protect this asset for both present and future generations.”
Jiwoh Abdulai, Minister of Environment and Climate Change speaking at the groundbreaking event for the construction of Sierra Leones Canopy Walkway at Tacugama
Echoing this vision, Deputy Minister of Tourism, Kadijatu Grace Kamara, highlighted Tacugama’s role as a national treasure,“This endeavour is more than just concrete and steel. It is a pathway to the future where every visitor can see, feel, and experience the light of Sierra Leone.”
Traditional leaders present also pledged to raise awareness within local communities about preserving the sanctuary and supporting the walkway.
Once completed, the canopy walkway will create jobs and entrepreneurial opportunities, particularly for young people and women in surrounding communities. It is expected to boost demand for guiding services, hospitality, handicrafts, and other eco-tourism ventures.
Beyond its economic benefits, the project aims to inspire a new generation to view conservation not only as a responsibility but also as a pathway to sustainable livelihoods. It stands as a model that blends conservation with tourism, education with experience, and nature with nurture.
