Singapore Country Report
Sierra Leone is a mineral-rich but poor country in West Africa. The country has taken aggressive steps toward post-war reconstruction since its civil war ended in 2002, but has struggled in recent years to recover from a deadly Ebola outbreak and low commodity prices. Limited infrastructure, chronic corruption and health hazards are seen as some of the main deterrents to foreign investment and development, Sierra Leone remains one of the poorest countries in the world with a low maternal mortality rate and a very high infant mortality rate. Much of the country’s infrastructure was destroyed in the conflict, and despite ongoing reconstruction efforts, improving the road network, along with access to telecommunications, water, and electricity services, remains difficult. With the Ebola outbreak in 2014-2015, the already limited medical facilities were further strained. The main threats for foreign tourists are petty thefts, various crimes of opportunism and traffic accidents. The country is also prone to floods and landslides, and climate change and lack of preparation exacerbate the effects of these natural disasters.
Last updated: April 12, 2022
Security
Sierra Leone has largely achieved stability since its devastating civil war ended in 2002, and there are no signs of a return to armed conflict. There are no known terrorist groups operating in Sierra Leone or considered a threat to foreign interests in the country. Criminal activity is widespread throughout Sierra Leone, and the main threat to foreign tourists and migrants is mainly non-violent and opportunistic crime. Civil unrest is common and security forces tend to respond in a heavy-handed manner that often escalates in situations.
Last updated: May 13, 2022
Infrastructure
Air travel by airlines based in Sierra Leone poses serious safety concerns.
Road trips in this country are dangerous due to poor road conditions, lack of lighting, and frequent traffic accidents.
The port of Freetown is considered relatively efficient.
The provision of water and electricity services and the provision of services may be interrupted from time to time.
There is a growing concern about the threat of cyber attacks that could damage the country’s economy.
Last updated: April 3, 2023
Environment
Floods and landslides are common during the rainy season from May to October and can cause widespread destruction and disruption. Mines left over from the civil war created a limited risk in some areas of the north and east of the country.
Last updated: March 16, 2022
Health and Medical
Although Ebola virus disease has been officially eliminated in Sierra Leone since 2016, many insect and water-borne diseases continue to pose risks to travelers. The medical standards and facilities of the country are limited. Medicines may be in short supply and the problem of counterfeit medicines still persists.
Last updated: April 1, 2022
Political
Although there is no immediate threat to the stability of the current government, deep and widespread poverty and high unemployment remain the tipping point for social unrest. Corruption is pervasive at all levels of government and remains a significant barrier to foreign investment. Government institutions are fragile and weakened due to lack of resources, education and corruption.
Last updated: March 28, 2022
