TRACE Joenal joined the nation in celebrating a historic moment as Sierra Leone hosted its first-ever National Coastal Unity Boat Race from April 4–5, 2026. The landmark initiative was made possible by the GEED Foundation, which successfully brought the vision to life.
The initiative aimed to celebrate traditional maritime skills, promote tourism, and foster unity among sixteen coastal communities in the Western Area. It also highlighted the cultural richness and economic potential of Sierra Leone’s coastline.
The GEED Foundation collaborated with key institutions, including the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Marine Times Agency, Rokel Commercial Bank, Africell, and Excel Academy, among others, to organize the long-awaited event.
Held at Chapter One Beach Front, the two-day competition marked a significant revival of cultural and sporting activities along the country’s الساحل. The preliminary round on April 4 featured contestants from coastal communities across the country, officially kicking off the competition. The excitement peaked on April 5 during the grand finale, where the winners were decided.
A total of 16 communities participated, showcasing unity, resilience, and exceptional maritime skill. The event featured thrilling races and offered attractive cash prizes for the top three winners.
Organizers emphasized that the initiative extends beyond competition. It forms part of a broader effort to support the government’s agenda for national unity while promoting Sierra Leone on a global stage. By bringing together diverse coastal communities, the race symbolized collaboration and shared national identity.
Participating communities included Aberdeen, Kroo Bay, Tombo, Susan’s Bay, Moa Wharf, Banana Water, Portee Wharf, Ferry Terminal, Murray Town, and Lakka, among others.
The grand finale saw intense competition among top-performing communities, including Kroo Bay, Susan’s Bay, Moa Wharf, Banana Water, Portee Wharf, Ferry Terminal, and Lakka.
Kissy Ferry Terminal emerged as the overall winner of the 2026 National Coastal Unity Boat Race, defeating strong contenders from Susan’s Bay and Moa Wharf in a closely contested final.
The event attracted a large audience, including government officials, development partners, youth groups, and residents, all gathered along the coastline to witness the spectacle.
A key highlight of the event was a strategic discussion between Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin and Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Nabeela Farida Tunis. Both leaders emphasized that national development is driven by citizens’ passion, unity, and commitment to progress.
Dr. Ekundayo Walton Gilpin, Chief Executive Officer of the GEED Foundation, described the initiative as a platform that goes beyond sport, emphasizing its role in promoting collaboration, peace, and social cohesion.
Minister Tunis underscored the importance of leveraging Sierra Leone’s coastal resources to boost tourism and create economic opportunities, particularly for young people. She noted that the initiative aligns with the government’s strategy to position the country as a leading tourism destination in West Africa while preserving its cultural heritage.
Organizers stated that the success of the event demonstrates the powerful impact of combining sport, culture, and tourism to drive unity and economic growth. Sierra Leone’s coastline, they noted, remains a vital national asset.
Participants and spectators alike commended the organizers and partners for delivering a meaningful and engaging event. They highlighted the importance of community-based competitions in promoting talent development, social cohesion, and national progress.
The competition showcased teamwork, cultural identity, and the unifying power of sport, reinforcing its role in strengthening partnerships and advancing development goals.
Even after its conclusion, the event continues to generate excitement, with communities proudly reflecting on their strength, skill, and cultural heritage displayed on the water.
Although this was the first modern National Coastal Unity Boat Race, TRACE Joenal learned that a similar canoe competition was last held nearly 60 years ago on Bonthe’s Sherbro Island. That event, initiated by former British Governor Sir Maurice Henry Dorman, was traditionally held around December 26.
