Freetown, December 27, 2025 – The Ministry of Social Welfare has issued a strong statement defending the country’s long-standing tradition of interfaith harmony, in response to circulating social media videos featuring religious leaders discouraging Muslims from accepting food or goodwill from Christian neighbors during the Christmas season.
In a press release dated December 27, the ministry emphasized that such views “do not reflect the values or traditions of our nation.”
Sierra Leone, it noted, is founded on peaceful coexistence between Muslims and Christians, with generations of families and neighbors sharing meals, celebrations, and mutual respect without compromising their beliefs. This interfaith harmony forms a cornerstone of national identity.
The statement highlighted constitutional guarantees of religious freedom alongside principles of tolerance, respect, and social cohesion.
“Messages that promote division or exclusion run contrary to these principles,” it read. Acts like sharing food, exchanging greetings, and extending goodwill across faiths are described as humanitarian gestures that strengthen community bonds and national peace, without undermining personal convictions.
The ministry called on all religious leaders and public figures to exercise responsibility, particularly on social media, and to promote peace, unity, and mutual understanding. .
The government reiterated its commitment to protecting religious freedom while safeguarding national harmony and social stability.
Sierra Leone is widely regarded as one of the world’s most religiously tolerant nations, with Muslims comprising about 77% of the population and Christians around 22%. Interfaith marriages, shared holidays, and collaborative community efforts are common.
Recent controversies, including sermons warning against participating in Christmas activities, have sparked public debate, but official responses like this underscore efforts to preserve unity.
The release was signed by the Ministry of Social Welfare in New England Ville, Freetown, with media inquiries directed to Information Officer Melrose Ansumana.
