Kenema, city in Sierra Leone
Kenema is a city in southeastern Sierra Leone, sitting near the edge of the rainforest and ranking as the country's third-largest urban center. Its streets are lined with small shops, open-air stalls, and a few colonial-era buildings that give the center a layered, working character.
The area grew rapidly in the early 20th century after diamonds were discovered nearby, drawing traders and workers and turning a small settlement into a regional hub. During Sierra Leone's civil war in the 1990s, the city suffered serious damage but has been steadily rebuilding since the conflict ended.
The name Kenema comes from the local language and means a place of gathering. The city shows itself through its lively markets where craftspeople weave traditional baskets, dye fabrics, and carve wooden masks that visitors can purchase as souvenirs. These handcraft traditions remain part of daily life and connect the community to its roots.
Motorbike taxis are the quickest way to get around town, though the roads can be rough in places. The area around the main market is a good base, as most guesthouses and practical services for visitors are found nearby.
The local hospital was one of the main treatment centers in Sierra Leone during the Ebola outbreak between 2014 and 2016, drawing international health workers to the city. Visitors who spend time here may still meet people with direct memories of that period, giving the place an unexpected depth.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
