Introduction

Sierra Leone’s culture is diverse; this is as a result of the large number of ethnic groups living in the country. The diversity of these ethnic groups and distinct cultures contribute to the richness of Sierra Leonean culture. In this article, the definition of culture, Sierra Leone culture, the ethnic groups in Sierra Leone and their places of inhabitation will be discussed. 

What is Culture?

Culture can be defined as an accepted way of life of a group of people; it is a term that has multiple definitions because it is intrinsic to human behaviour.  Culture is a set of customs, traditions, beliefs, values, norms, language, and practices that people share in common and that define them as a group or society-(WorldAtlas)

Sierra Leone Culture

Sierra Leone is on the West Coast of Africa. It is a home to a great diversity of ethnic groups whose distinct cultures contribute to her richness. Sierra Leone people are relaxed, hospitable, expressive, resilient, religious and very intelligent. Rice and cassava are the staples of diets, though there are various other foods depending on the ethnic groups and their geographical areas of inhabitants.

Music reflects the influences of British, French, Creole, and West Indian Styles, hence the repatriation of the free slaves from Europe and the Americas in the late 18th century to Freetown coastal areas.

Football is the most popular sport among others (volleyball, Basketball, Boxing) etc. Families are mainly extended and include many generations, and mostly live together. Dress varies depending on the ethnic group, location, occupation, occasion and preference-(WorldAtlas).

Ethnic Groups in Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone has about sixteen (16) ethnic groups; Themne, Mende, Limba, Fullah, Krio, Susu, Yalunka, Mandingo, Sherbro, Koranko, Kissi, Kono, Loko, Vai, Krim and Kroo

The largest group are the Themne, at 35.4% of Sierra Leone’s population. The Themne are predominantly found in the Northern Province of Sierra Leone and some areas around Freetown (the capital of Sierra Leone). Mende 30.8%, mainly found in the Southern Province and Eastern Province of Sierra Leone with the exception of Kono district. Limba 8.8%, mainly found in the Northern Province of Sierra Leone. Kono 4.3%, mainly found in the Eastern Province, Kono district of Sierra Leone. Koranko 4 %, mainly found in the Northern Province, Kabala and Falaba Districts of Sierra Leone. Fullah 3.8%, mainly found in the Western Area of Sierra Leone and a few in the Northern Province of Sierra Leone. Mandingo 2.8%, mainly found in western area of Sierra Leone.  The Loko 2% mainly found in port Loko district North-West Province of Sierra Leone. Sherbro1.9%, mainly found in the southern province, Bonth District of Sierra Leone.  Creole 1.2% descendant of free Jamaican slaves settled in the late 18th century in Freetown western area and others 5%. Source =CIA World Factbook; (2019 est)

The culture of Sierra Leone though diverse, has its unique qualities as each ethnic group portrays its unique culture that befits the overall traditions, customs, values and norms of Sierra Leone.