Freetown, Sierra Leone
Population: 1,387,360
A New Haven Sister City since 1997
Over the years there have been close relationships between the officials and citizens of New Haven and Freetown, with friendly visits back and forth. New Haven has also sent funds and supplies to help with difficulties in Freetown, including a disastrous mudslide, an Ebola outbreak, and Covid-19.
What’s Our Connection?
Freetown has one of the world's biggest natural deep water harbors which the city revolves around. Oil and diamonds are the two major natural resources that have made Freetown a major trading hub.
What is Freetown Known For?
Early settlers of Sierra Leone were African people who were formerly enslaved in Britain. In 1808, Sierra Leone was colonized by the British. Milton Margai became the first prime minister in 1958. The country filed for independence from Britain in 1960. Freetown became a capital in 1961. The country fought a brutal civil war from 1991 to 2002. Since that time the government has instituted a Truth and Reconciliation Commission to help heal the country.
History
The major industries in the city are services, retail, and wholesale trade. The per capita GDP in Freetown is almost double that in the rest of the country. The poverty rate in the city is also lower than that in the rest of the country. There has been an influx of international investment in recent years. Many people have been moving to Freetown on a wave of economic growth. However, the city still in suffers economically. There is a strong expatriate community and a significant nightlife in Freetown.
The Economy
Fun Fact: Nature
When former slaves first gathered in Freetown, they gave thanks at the the city's now historic cotton tree. The city's beautiful beaches are home to wildlife and culture, though civil unrest and conflict have limited visitors to these areas.