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The government is slowly reestablishing its authority after the 1991 to 2002 civil war that resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and the displacement of more than 2 million people (about one-third of the population).
The last UN peacekeepers withdrew in December 2005, leaving full responsibility for security with domestic forces, but a new civilian UN office remains to support the government.
In August of 2007, the presidential and parliamentary elections were held. No presidential candidate won a majority of the votes, causing a runoff election to be held in September. Ernest Bai Koroma was elected president.
Sierra Leon is one of the 10 top diamond producing countries in the world. Diamonds and other mineral exports are the main source of income.
Although Sierra Leon has seen economic success the past several years, there are still significant economic challenges – particularly high unemployment.
Columbian drug cartels are moving into Sierra Leon, using it as a base to ship drugs to Europe.
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- Official Name Republic of Sierra Leone
- Population 5,559,853
- Capital City Freetown (pop. 1,070,200)
- Currency Leone
- Currency Converter
- Languages English (official), Mende, Temne, Krio
- National Day 27 April, Independence Day
- Religions Muslim, locals beliefs
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- Land Area 71,620 sq km (27,652 sq miles)
- Highest Point Bintmani Pk. (6,390 ft.) (1,948
m)
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- Latitude/Longitude 8°
49' N 13° 24' W
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Travel Recommendations Before finalizing and/or making your travel plans to any worldwide destination, we strongly recommend you authenticate and research all of the important details regarding applicable health, passport and visa requirements.
If you require additional assistance, the experienced professionals at Travel Visa Pro can answer all of your questions!
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Sierra Leone is located in
the tropics, so conditions are hot and humid throughout the year. May to
December is the rainy season, while December to April is the dry season.
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Sierra Leone Miners...
Children in a small village...
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