Sierra Leone

The government is slowly reestablishing its authority after the civil war from 1991 to 2002 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. A new civilian UN mission - the UN Integrated Office in Sierra Leone (UNIOSIL) - was established to support the government's efforts to consolidate peace. The most pressing long-term threat to stability in Sierra Leone is the potential for political insecurity surrounding elections in July 2007.

Languages & Population

Approximate Population: 6,144,562

Nationality (Noun): Sierra Leonean(s)

Nationality (Adjective): Sierra Leonean

Official Language(s): English

Major Languages Spoken: Bassa, English, Fuuta Jalon, Kissi, Kono, Mandingo

Country Facts

Country Name (long form): Republic of Sierra Leone

Country Name (short form): Sierra Leone

Country Name (local long form): Republic of Sierra Leone

Country Name (local short form): Sierra Leone

Name of Capital: Freetown

UTC Time Difference (from capital): UTC 0 (5 hours ahead of Washington, DC during Standard Time)

Countries Near by, and Bordering Sierra Leone: Liberia, Guinea

Land Area: 71620 sq km

Comparative Area: Slightly smaller than South Carolina

Total Land Boundry: 958 km

Coastline: 402 km

National Holiday: Independence Day, 27 April (1961)

International Phone Code: 232

Currency Code: leone (SLL)

Internet Country Code: .sl

US Embassy Location: Corner of Walpole and Siaka Stevens Streets, Freetown

US Embassy Mailing Address: none