|
Sierra Leone is trying to change its image as a war-torn country by promoting ecotourism, writes journalist Paige McClanahan at the launch of the new Gola Rainforest National Park.
If you are looking to plan a bird-watching holiday, Sierra Leone might not be the first destination that jumps to mind. But that could change soon, if the government of this small West African nation gets its way.
Earlier this month, Sierra Leone opened the Gola Rainforest National Park, a 71,000-hectare protected area that is home to more bird species than can be found breeding in all of the UK.
The government hopes that the new park might help nature-loving tourists see beyond the battered image that defines the country overseas.
Continue reading the main story
“Start Quote
With further development, ecotourism will continue to grow and generate economic benefits for the country”
Ernest Bai KoromaSierra Leone's president
The reason for that image is a brutal 11-year civil war which claimed the lives of tens of thousands of people. But Sierra Leone has been at peace since the conflict ended in 2002.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-16165760
|
