Kenema: The Heart of Sierra Leone's Eastern Province

• HelloYaa
  [yah]
• GoodbyeDebaa
  [deh-bah]
• YesEhn
  [ehn]
• NoNah
  [nah]
• Please/You're welcomeKata
  [ka-tah]
• Thank youTenki
  [ten-kee]
• Excuse me/SorrySowi
  [soh-wee]
• How are you?How di bodi?
  [how dee boh-dee]
• Fine. And you?Fine. Na yu?
  [feen. nah yoo]
• Do you speak English?Yu sabi tok Engrish?
  [yoo sa-bee tok en-grish]
• I don't understandA no sabi
  [ah no sa-bee]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseAh wan see di menu, abeg
  [ah wahn see dee meh-noo, ah-beg]
• I don't eat meatA no de eat mɔt
  [ah no deh eet moht]
• Cheers!Up
  [oop]
• I would like to pay, pleaseAh go pay, abeg
  [ah goh pay, ah-beg]

• Help!Fɔl oh!
  [fohl oh]
• Go away!Go lef!
  [goh lehf]
• Call the Police!Kɔl polis!
  [kohl poh-lees]
• Call a doctor!Kɔl dokta!
  [kohl dohk-tah]
• I'm lostA loss
  [ah loss]
• I'm illA sik
  [ah seek]

• I'd like to buy...Ah wan buy...
  [ah wahn buy]
• I'm just lookingA de luk
  [ah deh look]
• How much is it?Ehn di wɔn cost?
  [ehn dee wohn cost]
• That's too expensiveDɔt tɔɔ much
  [doht too much]
• Can you lower the price?Yu fit reduce di price?
  [yoo fit ree-dooce dee price]

• What time is it?Na waik tan?
  [nah wah-ick tahn]
• It's one o'clockNa wan taim
  [nah wahn tah-eem]
• Half past (10)Half past (10)
  [half past (10)]
• MorningMɔnin
  [moh-neen]
• AfternoonAftanun
  [ahf-tah-noon]
• EveningIvinin
  [ee-vee-neen]
• YesterdayYeside
  [yeh-see-deh]
• TodayTide
  [tee-deh]
• TomorrowTamoro
  [tah-moh-roh]
• 11
  [1]
• 22
  [2]
• 33
  [3]
• 44
  [4]
• 55
  [5]
• 66
  [6]
• 77
  [7]
• 88
  [8]
• 99
  [9]
• 1010
  [10]

• Where's a/the...?Wey di...?
  [wey dee]
• What's the address?Wat na di addres?
  [waht nah dee add-rehs]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Yu fit show mi? (na di map)
  [yoo fit show mee? (nah dee map)]
• When's the next (bus)?Na wen di nɛkst (bɔs)?
  [nah wen dee neckst (bohs)]
• A ticket (to ....)Wan tikɛt (go ...)
  [wahn tee-keh-t (goh)]

Kenema, located in the Eastern Province of Sierra Leone, has a history that dates back to pre-colonial times. The area was originally inhabited by the Mende people, who established small villages and communities. The fertile land and abundant natural resources made Kenema an attractive location for early settlers.

During the late 19th century, Sierra Leone became a British colony. Kenema's strategic location made it an important administrative and commercial center. The introduction of railway lines in the early 20th century further bolstered Kenema's significance, linking it with other major cities such as Freetown and Bo.

Kenema experienced significant economic growth in the mid-20th century due to the discovery of diamonds in the region. The diamond industry attracted numerous traders and laborers, turning Kenema into a bustling hub of economic activity. This period saw the construction of infrastructure and public buildings that still stand today.

Kenema, like much of Sierra Leone, was deeply affected by the civil war that raged from 1991 to 2002. The city saw significant conflict and disruption, with many residents displaced and infrastructure damaged. However, Kenema also became a center for humanitarian efforts during and after the war, providing aid and support to those affected.

Following the end of the civil war, Kenema has been in a phase of rebuilding and development. Efforts have been made to restore infrastructure, improve healthcare and education, and revitalize the local economy. Today, Kenema is known for its vibrant markets, cultural festivals, and as a gateway to the lush rainforests of the Eastern Province.

Kenema is a cultural melting pot, with traditions and customs that reflect its diverse population. The Mende culture is particularly prominent, with traditional music, dance, and ceremonies playing a vital role in community life. The city is also known for its artisan crafts, including weaving and carving, which are popular among both locals and tourists.

Kenema serves as a gateway to some of Sierra Leone's most stunning natural attractions. The nearby Gola Rainforest National Park is a haven for biodiversity, offering opportunities for ecotourism and wildlife spotting. The region's lush landscapes, waterfalls, and pristine rivers make it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.

Kenema is located in the Eastern Province of Sierra Leone. The closest international airport is Lungi International Airport in Freetown, approximately 300 kilometers away. From Freetown, you can take a private taxi or a public bus to Kenema. The journey typically takes around 5 to 6 hours by road. There are also domestic flights available from Freetown to the Kenema Airstrip, which significantly reduces the travel time.

Within Kenema, transportation options include motorbike taxis (okadas), regular taxis, and minibuses. Okadas are a quick and affordable way to get around the city. Regular taxis are also available and can be hired for a day. Minibuses operate on set routes and are the most economical option for traveling longer distances within the city and to nearby towns.

The official currency in Sierra Leone is the Sierra Leonean Leone (SLL). Credit cards are not widely accepted, so it is advisable to carry cash. ATMs are available in Kenema, but they may not always be reliable, so withdrawing sufficient cash in Freetown before traveling is recommended. Currency exchange services are available at banks and some hotels.

Kenema is generally safe for tourists, but it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, particularly in isolated areas. Be cautious in crowded places to prevent pickpocketing. Areas with higher crime rates targeting tourists include the central market area and certain neighborhoods on the outskirts of the city. Always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities, including the Kenema Government Hospital, are available to provide support. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies throughout the city where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in public areas and when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before photographing religious ceremonies or people. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t argue with drivers or conductors. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a smile. It is customary to ask about the well-being of the person and their family. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Kenema like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Sierra Leonean goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don’t miss visiting the Kambui Hills Forest Reserve for a taste of local wildlife and hiking trails. For a unique cultural experience, try attending a traditional dance or music performance.