Sierra Leone
Capital
Freetown
Population
~8.4 million
Currency
Sierra Leonean Leone (SLL - redenominated in 2022)
Quick Facts
- Languages
- English (official), Krio (lingua franca)
- Religion
- Predominantly Muslim, significant Christian minority
- Climate
- Tropical monsoon; hot, humid; distinct wet and dry seasons
Culture & History
Known for: 'blood diamond' history, brutal civil war (1991-2002), and being founded as a home for freed slaves (Freetown)
Also famous for: Beaches, diamond mining challenges, resilience post-war and Ebola outbreak
Food: Cassava leaves stew, Groundnut stew, Fufu
Brief History
Province of Freedom for freed slaves, British colony, independence 1961, devastated by civil war, ongoing recovery