Knelstrom Intelligence · World Factbook
Sierra Leone
CapitalFreetown
Population8,819,794
GDP$7.5bn
Area71,740 km²
RegionSub-Saharan Africa
Data sources current · last checked September 20, 2026 2:11 am
Country facts
Overview
Background
Continuously populated for at least 2,500 years, the area now known as Sierra Leone is covered with dense jungle that allowed the region to remain relatively protected from invading West African empires. Traders introduced Sierra Leone to Islam, which occupies a central role in Sierra Leonean culture and history. In the 17th century, the British set up a trading post near present-day Freetown. The trade originally involved timber and ivory but later expanded to enslaved people. In 1787, after the American Revolution, Sierra Leone became a destination for Black British loyalists from the new United States. When Britain abolished the slave trade in 1807, British ships delivered thousands of liberated Africans to Sierra Leone. During the 19th century, the colony gradually expanded inland.
In 1961, Sierra Leone became independent of the UK. Sierra Leone held free and fair elections in 1962 and 1967, but Siaka STEVENS -- Sierra Leone’s second prime minister -- quickly reverted to authoritarian tendencies, outlawing most political parties and ruling from 1967 to 1985. In 1991, Sierra Leonean soldiers launched a civil war against STEVENS’ ruling party. The war caused tens of thousands of deaths and displaced more than 2 million people (about one third of the population). In 1998, a Nigerian-led West African coalition military force intervened, installing Tejan KABBAH -- who was originally elected in 1996 -- as prime minister. In 2002, KABBAH officially announced the end of the war. Since 1998, Sierra Leone has conducted democratic elections dominated by the two main political parties, the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and the All People’s Congress (APC) party. In 2018, Julius Maada BIO of the Sierra Leone People’s Party won the presidential election that saw a high voter turnout despite some allegations of voter intimidation. BIO won again in June 2023, although irregularities were noted that called into question the integrity of the results. In October 2023, the Government of Sierra Leone and the main opposition party, the All People’s Congress, signed the Agreement for National Unity to boost cooperation between political parties and begin the process of reforming the country’s electoral system.
Reference: 2023, 2018, 2002, 1998In 1961, Sierra Leone became independent of the UK. Sierra Leone held free and fair elections in 1962 and 1967, but Siaka STEVENS -- Sierra Leone’s second prime minister -- quickly reverted to authoritarian tendencies, outlawing most political parties and ruling from 1967 to 1985. In 1991, Sierra Leonean soldiers launched a civil war against STEVENS’ ruling party. The war caused tens of thousands of deaths and displaced more than 2 million people (about one third of the population). In 1998, a Nigerian-led West African coalition military force intervened, installing Tejan KABBAH -- who was originally elected in 1996 -- as prime minister. In 2002, KABBAH officially announced the end of the war. Since 1998, Sierra Leone has conducted democratic elections dominated by the two main political parties, the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and the All People’s Congress (APC) party. In 2018, Julius Maada BIO of the Sierra Leone People’s Party won the presidential election that saw a high voter turnout despite some allegations of voter intimidation. BIO won again in June 2023, although irregularities were noted that called into question the integrity of the results. In October 2023, the Government of Sierra Leone and the main opposition party, the All People’s Congress, signed the Agreement for National Unity to boost cooperation between political parties and begin the process of reforming the country’s electoral system.
Geography
Location
Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Guinea and Liberia
Map references
Africa
Area
total: 71,740 sq km
land: 71,620 sq km
water: 120 sq km
land: 71,620 sq km
water: 120 sq km
Area - comparative
slightly smaller than South Carolina
Land boundaries
total: 1,093 km
border countries: Guinea 794 km; Liberia 299 km
border countries: Guinea 794 km; Liberia 299 km
Coastline
402 km
Maritime claims
territorial sea: 12 nm
contiguous zone: 24 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm
contiguous zone: 24 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm
Climate
tropical; hot, humid; summer rainy season (May to December); winter dry season (December to April)
Terrain
coastal belt of mangrove swamps, wooded hill country, upland plateau, mountains in east
Elevation
highest point: Loma Mansa (Bintimani) 1,948 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 279 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 279 m
Natural resources
diamonds, titanium ore, bauxite, iron ore, gold, chromite
Land use
agricultural land: 54.7% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 21.9% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 2.3% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 30.5% (2023 est.)
forest: 34.3% (2023 est.)
other: 11% (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 21.9% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 2.3% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 30.5% (2023 est.)
forest: 34.3% (2023 est.)
other: 11% (2023 est.)
Irrigated land
300 sq km (2012)
Reference: 2012Major watersheds (area sq km)
Atlantic Ocean drainage: Niger (2,261,741 sq km)
Population distribution
population clusters are found in the lower elevations of the south and west; the northern third of the country is less populated, as shown on this population distribution map
Natural hazards
dry, sand-laden harmattan winds blow from the Sahara (December to February); sandstorms, dust storms
Geography - note
rainfall along the coast can reach 495 cm (195 in) a year, making it one of the wettest places along coastal western Africa
Population & Society
Nationality
noun: Sierra Leonean(s)
adjective: Sierra Leonean
adjective: Sierra Leonean
Ethnic groups
Temne 35.4%, Mende 30.8%, Limba 8.8%, Kono 4.3%, Korankoh 4%, Fullah 3.8%, Mandingo 2.8%, Loko 2%, Sherbro 1.9%, Creole 1.2% (descendants of freed Jamaican slaves who were settled in the Freetown area in the late-18th century; also known as Krio), other 5% (2019 est.)
Reference: 2019Languages
English (official, regular use limited to literate minority), Mende (principal vernacular in the south), Temne (principal vernacular in the north), Krio (English-based Creole, spoken by the descendants of freed Jamaican slaves; a first language for 10% of the population but understood by 95%)
Religions
Muslim 77.1%, Christian 22.9% (2019 est.)
Reference: 2019Age structure
0-14 years: 40.1% (male 1,843,606/female 1,812,304)
15-64 years: 57.4% (male 2,557,715/female 2,675,418)
65 years and over: 2.5% (2024 est.) (male 114,405/female 117,601)
Reference: 202415-64 years: 57.4% (male 2,557,715/female 2,675,418)
65 years and over: 2.5% (2024 est.) (male 114,405/female 117,601)
Dependency ratios
total dependency ratio: 74.3 (2024 est.)
youth dependency ratio: 69.9 (2024 est.)
elderly dependency ratio: 4.4 (2024 est.)
potential support ratio: 22.6 (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024youth dependency ratio: 69.9 (2024 est.)
elderly dependency ratio: 4.4 (2024 est.)
potential support ratio: 22.6 (2024 est.)
Median age
total: 19.4 years (2024 est.)
male: 19 years
female: 19.9 years
Reference: 2024male: 19 years
female: 19.9 years
Population growth rate
2.32% (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Birth rate
30.8 births/1,000 population (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Death rate
9 deaths/1,000 population (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Population distribution
population clusters are found in the lower elevations of the south and west; the northern third of the country is less populated, as shown on this population distribution map
Major urban areas - population
1.309 million FREETOWN (capital) (2023)
Reference: 2023Sex ratio
at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.02 male(s)/female
15-64 years: 0.96 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.97 male(s)/female
total population: 0.98 male(s)/female (2024 est.)
Reference: 20240-14 years: 1.02 male(s)/female
15-64 years: 0.96 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.97 male(s)/female
total population: 0.98 male(s)/female (2024 est.)
Mother's mean age at first birth
19.6 years (2019 est.)
note: note: data represents median age at first birth among women 20-49
Reference: 2019note: note: data represents median age at first birth among women 20-49
Maternal mortality ratio
354 deaths/100,000 live births (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Gross reproduction rate
1.78 (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Drinking water source
improved: urban: urban: 79.8% of population (2022 est.)
improved: rural: rural: 54.1% of population (2022 est.)
improved: total: total: 65.3% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: urban: urban: 20.2% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: rural: rural: 45.9% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: total: total: 34.7% of population (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022improved: rural: rural: 54.1% of population (2022 est.)
improved: total: total: 65.3% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: urban: urban: 20.2% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: rural: rural: 45.9% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: total: total: 34.7% of population (2022 est.)
Health expenditure
Health expenditure (as % of GDP): 8.6% of GDP (2021)
Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 5.2% of national budget (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022, 2021Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 5.2% of national budget (2022 est.)
Physician density
0.13 physicians/1,000 population (2022)
Reference: 2022Sanitation facility access
improved: urban: urban: 81.9% of population (2022 est.)
improved: rural: rural: 37.9% of population (2022 est.)
improved: total: total: 57.2% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: urban: urban: 18.1% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: rural: rural: 62.1% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: total: total: 42.8% of population (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022improved: rural: rural: 37.9% of population (2022 est.)
improved: total: total: 57.2% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: urban: urban: 18.1% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: rural: rural: 62.1% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: total: total: 42.8% of population (2022 est.)
Obesity - adult prevalence rate
8.7% (2016)
Reference: 2016Alcohol consumption per capita
total: 3.22 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
beer: 0.17 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
wine: 0.01 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
spirits: 0.15 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
other alcohols: 2.9 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Reference: 2019beer: 0.17 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
wine: 0.01 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
spirits: 0.15 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
other alcohols: 2.9 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Tobacco use
total: 9.8% (2025 est.)
male: 14.8% (2025 est.)
female: 4.9% (2025 est.)
male: 14.8% (2025 est.)
female: 4.9% (2025 est.)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight
12% (2021 est.)
Reference: 2021Currently married women (ages 15-49)
58.9% (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Child marriage
women married by age 15: 8.6% (2019)
women married by age 18: 29.6% (2019)
men married by age 18: 4.1% (2019)
Reference: 2019women married by age 18: 29.6% (2019)
men married by age 18: 4.1% (2019)
Migration & Displacement
Immigrant/emigrant stock measures the number of international migrants resident in, or originating from, the country; it is not the same as annual immigration/emigration flows.
Government & Politics
| Office | Holder | Affiliation | From | Status | Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Head of government | David Sengeh | — | 2023-00-00 | Current | Reported |
| Head of state | Julius Maada Bio | — | 2018-04-04 | Current | Reported |
Country name
conventional long form: Republic of Sierra Leone
conventional short form: Sierra Leone
local long form: Republic of Sierra Leone
local short form: Sierra Leone
etymology: Portuguese explorer Pedro de SINTRA is usually credited with naming the country "Serra da Leao" (Lion Mountains) in 1462, but Venetian explorer Alvise CA' DA MOSTO recorded the name as "Serre-Lionne" in 1457, referring to the rumbling of thunder over the mountains
conventional short form: Sierra Leone
local long form: Republic of Sierra Leone
local short form: Sierra Leone
etymology: Portuguese explorer Pedro de SINTRA is usually credited with naming the country "Serra da Leao" (Lion Mountains) in 1462, but Venetian explorer Alvise CA' DA MOSTO recorded the name as "Serre-Lionne" in 1457, referring to the rumbling of thunder over the mountains
Capital
name: Freetown
geographic coordinates: 8 29 N, 13 14 W
time difference: UTC 0 (5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the name described the original settlement in 1781, which served as a haven for free-born and freed African Americans
geographic coordinates: 8 29 N, 13 14 W
time difference: UTC 0 (5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the name described the original settlement in 1781, which served as a haven for free-born and freed African Americans
Administrative divisions
4 provinces and 1 area*; Eastern, Northern, North Western, Southern, Western*
Legal system
mixed system of English common law and customary law
Constitution
history: several previous; latest effective 1 October 1991
amendment process: proposed by Parliament; passage of amendments requires at least two-thirds majority vote of Parliament in two successive readings and assent of the president of the republic; passage of amendments affecting fundamental rights and freedoms and many other constitutional sections also requires approval in a referendum with participation of at least one half of qualified voters and at least two thirds of votes cast
Reference: 1991amendment process: proposed by Parliament; passage of amendments requires at least two-thirds majority vote of Parliament in two successive readings and assent of the president of the republic; passage of amendments affecting fundamental rights and freedoms and many other constitutional sections also requires approval in a referendum with participation of at least one half of qualified voters and at least two thirds of votes cast
International law organization participation
has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
Citizenship
citizenship by birth: no
citizenship by descent only: at least one parent or grandparent must be a citizen of Sierra Leone
dual citizenship recognized: yes
residency requirement for naturalization: 5 years
citizenship by descent only: at least one parent or grandparent must be a citizen of Sierra Leone
dual citizenship recognized: yes
residency requirement for naturalization: 5 years
Suffrage
18 years of age; universal
Executive branch
chief of state: President Julius Maada BIO (since 27 June 2023)
head of government: President Julius Maada BIO (since 27 June 2023)
cabinet: Ministers of State appointed by the president, approved by Parliament; the cabinet is responsible to the president
election/appointment process: president directly elected by 55% in the first round or absolute-majority popular vote in 2 rounds, if needed, for a 5-year term (eligible for a second term)
most recent election date: 24 June 2023
election results: 2023: Julius Maada BIO reelected president in first round; percent of vote - Julius Maada BIO (SLPP) 56.2%, Samura KAMARA (APC) 41.2%, other 2.6%
2018: Julius Maada BIO elected president in second round; percent of vote - Julius Maada BIO (SLPP) 51.8%, Samura KAMARA (APC) 48.2%
expected date of next election: June 2028
note: note: the president is chief of state, head of government, and minister of defense
Reference: 2028, 2023, 2018head of government: President Julius Maada BIO (since 27 June 2023)
cabinet: Ministers of State appointed by the president, approved by Parliament; the cabinet is responsible to the president
election/appointment process: president directly elected by 55% in the first round or absolute-majority popular vote in 2 rounds, if needed, for a 5-year term (eligible for a second term)
most recent election date: 24 June 2023
election results: 2023: Julius Maada BIO reelected president in first round; percent of vote - Julius Maada BIO (SLPP) 56.2%, Samura KAMARA (APC) 41.2%, other 2.6%
2018: Julius Maada BIO elected president in second round; percent of vote - Julius Maada BIO (SLPP) 51.8%, Samura KAMARA (APC) 48.2%
expected date of next election: June 2028
note: note: the president is chief of state, head of government, and minister of defense
Legislative branch
legislature name: Parliament
legislative structure: unicameral
number of seats: 149 (135 directly elected; 14 indirectly elected)
electoral system: proportional representation
scope of elections: full renewal
term in office: 5 years
most recent election date: 6/24/2023
parties elected and seats per party: Sierra Leone People's Party (SLPP) (81); All People's Congress (APC) (54)
percentage of women in chamber: 29.5%
expected date of next election: June 2028
note: note: 14 seats are reserved for "paramount chiefs," who are indirectly elected to represent the 14 provincial districts
Reference: 2028, 2023legislative structure: unicameral
number of seats: 149 (135 directly elected; 14 indirectly elected)
electoral system: proportional representation
scope of elections: full renewal
term in office: 5 years
most recent election date: 6/24/2023
parties elected and seats per party: Sierra Leone People's Party (SLPP) (81); All People's Congress (APC) (54)
percentage of women in chamber: 29.5%
expected date of next election: June 2028
note: note: 14 seats are reserved for "paramount chiefs," who are indirectly elected to represent the 14 provincial districts
Judicial branch
highest court(s): Superior Court of Judicature (consists of the Supreme Court at the top, with the chief justice and 4 other judges, the Court of Appeal with the chief justice and 7 other judges, and the High Court of Justice with the chief justice and 9 other judges)
judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court chief justice and other judges of the Judicature appointed by the president on the advice of the Judicial and Legal Service Commission, a 7-member independent body of judges, presidential appointees, and the Commission chairman, and are subject to approval by Parliament; all Judicature judges serve until retirement at age 65
subordinate courts: magistrates' courts; District Appeals Court; local courts
judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court chief justice and other judges of the Judicature appointed by the president on the advice of the Judicial and Legal Service Commission, a 7-member independent body of judges, presidential appointees, and the Commission chairman, and are subject to approval by Parliament; all Judicature judges serve until retirement at age 65
subordinate courts: magistrates' courts; District Appeals Court; local courts
Political parties
All People's Congress or APC
Sierra Leone People's Party or SLPP
Sierra Leone People's Party or SLPP
Diplomatic representation in the US
chief of mission: Ambassador Amara Sheikh Mohammed SOWA (since 24 July 2025)
chancery: 1701 19th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009-1605
telephone: [1] (202) 939-9261
FAX: [1] (202) 483-1793
email address and website: info@embassyofsierraleone.net
https://embassyofsierraleone.net/
chancery: 1701 19th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009-1605
telephone: [1] (202) 939-9261
FAX: [1] (202) 483-1793
email address and website: info@embassyofsierraleone.net
https://embassyofsierraleone.net/
Diplomatic representation from the US
chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Chargé d'Affaires Jared M. YANCEY (since 18 September 2025)
embassy: Southridge-Hill Station, Freetown
mailing address: 2160 Freetown Place, Washington DC 20521-2160
telephone: [232] 99 105 000
email address and website: consularfreetown@state.gov
https://sl.usembassy.gov/
embassy: Southridge-Hill Station, Freetown
mailing address: 2160 Freetown Place, Washington DC 20521-2160
telephone: [232] 99 105 000
email address and website: consularfreetown@state.gov
https://sl.usembassy.gov/
International organization participation
ACP, AfDB, ATMIS, AU, C, ECOWAS, EITI (compliant country), FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IHO (pending member), ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO (correspondent), ITU, ITUC (NGOs), MIGA, NAM, OIC, OPCW, UN, UNAMID, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNIFIL, UNISFA, UNOOSA, UNSOM, UNWTO, UPU, WCO, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Independence
27 April 1961 (from the UK)
Reference: 1961National holiday
Independence Day, 27 April (1961)
Reference: 1961Flag
description: three equal horizontal bands of light green (top), white, and light blue
meaning: green stands for agriculture, mountains, and natural resources; white for unity and justice; and blue for the sea and the natural harbor in Freetown
meaning: green stands for agriculture, mountains, and natural resources; white for unity and justice; and blue for the sea and the natural harbor in Freetown
National symbol(s)
lion
National color(s)
green, white, blue
National anthem(s)
title: "High We Exalt Thee, Realm of the Free"
lyrics/music: Clifford Nelson FYLE/John Joseph AKA
history: adopted 1961
Reference: 1961lyrics/music: Clifford Nelson FYLE/John Joseph AKA
history: adopted 1961
National heritage
total World Heritage Sites: 1 (natural)
selected World Heritage Site locales: Gola-Tiwai Complex (n)
selected World Heritage Site locales: Gola-Tiwai Complex (n)
Government & Official Links
| Institution | Official website | X / Twitter | Verification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sierra Leone official website | Official website | — | Reported · source Checked September 20, 2026 |
Institutional accounts only; personal accounts of political office-holders are excluded.
Legislature & Elections
Legislature
| Name | Chamber | Seats | Electoral system |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parliament of Sierra Leone | — | 124 | — |
Economy
Economic overview
low-income West African economy; primarily subsistent agriculture; key iron and diamond mining activities suspended; slow recovery from 1990s civil war; systemic corruption; high-risk debt; high youth unemployment; natural resource rich
Real GDP (purchasing power parity)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2024: $26.728 billion (2024 est.)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2023: $25.7 billion (2023 est.)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2022: $24.312 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2023: $25.7 billion (2023 est.)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2022: $24.312 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
Real GDP per capita
Real GDP per capita 2024: $3,100 (2024 est.)
Real GDP per capita 2023: $3,000 (2023 est.)
Real GDP per capita 2022: $2,900 (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021Real GDP per capita 2023: $3,000 (2023 est.)
Real GDP per capita 2022: $2,900 (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
GDP - composition, by sector of origin
agriculture: 25.4% (2024 est.)
industry: 27.3% (2024 est.)
services: 44.8% (2024 est.)
note: note: figures may not total 100% due to non-allocated consumption not captured in sector-reported data
Reference: 2024industry: 27.3% (2024 est.)
services: 44.8% (2024 est.)
note: note: figures may not total 100% due to non-allocated consumption not captured in sector-reported data
GDP - composition, by end use
household consumption: 87.6% (2024 est.)
government consumption: 5.5% (2024 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 29.5% (2024 est.)
investment in inventories: 0% (2024 est.)
exports of goods and services: 20.9% (2024 est.)
imports of goods and services: -43.5% (2024 est.)
note: note: figures may not total 100% due to rounding or gaps in data collection
Reference: 2024government consumption: 5.5% (2024 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 29.5% (2024 est.)
investment in inventories: 0% (2024 est.)
exports of goods and services: 20.9% (2024 est.)
imports of goods and services: -43.5% (2024 est.)
note: note: figures may not total 100% due to rounding or gaps in data collection
Agricultural products
cassava, rice, oil palm fruit, vegetables, sweet potatoes, milk, citrus fruits, fruits, groundnuts, sugarcane (2023)
note: note: top ten agricultural products based on tonnage
Reference: 2023note: note: top ten agricultural products based on tonnage
Industries
diamond mining; iron ore, rutile and bauxite mining; small-scale manufacturing (beverages, textiles, footwear)
Industrial production growth rate
4.7% (2024 est.)
note: note: annual % change in industrial value added based on constant local currency
Reference: 2024note: note: annual % change in industrial value added based on constant local currency
Labor force
2.863 million (2024 est.)
note: note: number of people ages 15 or older who are employed or seeking work
Reference: 2024note: note: number of people ages 15 or older who are employed or seeking work
Youth unemployment rate (ages 15-24)
total: 3.6% (2024 est.)
male: 4.8% (2024 est.)
female: 2.5% (2024 est.)
note: note: % of labor force ages 15-24 seeking employment
Reference: 2024male: 4.8% (2024 est.)
female: 2.5% (2024 est.)
note: note: % of labor force ages 15-24 seeking employment
Population below poverty line
56.8% (2018 est.)
note: note: % of population with income below national poverty line
Reference: 2018note: note: % of population with income below national poverty line
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income 2018: 35.7 (2018 est.)
note: note: index (0-100) of income distribution; higher values represent greater inequality
Reference: 2018note: note: index (0-100) of income distribution; higher values represent greater inequality
Household income or consumption by percentage share
lowest 10%: 3.4% (2018 est.)
highest 10%: 29.4% (2018 est.)
note: note: % share of income accruing to lowest and highest 10% of population
Reference: 2018highest 10%: 29.4% (2018 est.)
note: note: % share of income accruing to lowest and highest 10% of population
Remittances
Remittances 2023: 4.6% of GDP (2023 est.)
Remittances 2022: 4.1% of GDP (2022 est.)
Remittances 2021: 2.6% of GDP (2021 est.)
note: note: personal transfers and compensation between resident and non-resident individuals/households/entities
Reference: 2023, 2022, 2021Remittances 2022: 4.1% of GDP (2022 est.)
Remittances 2021: 2.6% of GDP (2021 est.)
note: note: personal transfers and compensation between resident and non-resident individuals/households/entities
Budget
revenues: $740 million (2019 est.)
expenditures: $867 million (2019 est.)
Reference: 2019expenditures: $867 million (2019 est.)
Public debt
Public debt 2016: 54.9% of GDP (2016 est.)
Reference: 2016Current account balance
Current account balance 2023: -$606.358 million (2023 est.)
Current account balance 2022: -$452.094 million (2022 est.)
Current account balance 2021: -$522.815 million (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Reference: 2023, 2022, 2021Current account balance 2022: -$452.094 million (2022 est.)
Current account balance 2021: -$522.815 million (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Exports
Exports 2023: $1.382 billion (2023 est.)
Exports 2022: $1.202 billion (2022 est.)
Exports 2021: $928.689 million (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2023, 2022, 2021Exports 2022: $1.202 billion (2022 est.)
Exports 2021: $928.689 million (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Exports - partners
China 67%, India 6%, Belgium 5%, Netherlands 4%, Ireland 3% (2023)
note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Exports - commodities
iron ore, titanium ore, diamonds, aluminum ore, cocoa beans (2023)
note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Imports
Imports 2023: $2.264 billion (2023 est.)
Imports 2022: $2.074 billion (2022 est.)
Imports 2021: $1.91 billion (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2023, 2022, 2021Imports 2022: $2.074 billion (2022 est.)
Imports 2021: $1.91 billion (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Imports - partners
China 32%, India 15%, UAE 5%, USA 5%, Turkey 5% (2023)
note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Imports - commodities
rice, plastic products, packaged medicine, cement, cars (2023)
note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2023: $495.699 million (2023 est.)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2022: $624.496 million (2022 est.)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2021: $945.908 million (2021 est.)
note: note: holdings of gold (year-end prices)/foreign exchange/special drawing rights in current dollars
Reference: 2023, 2022, 2021Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2022: $624.496 million (2022 est.)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2021: $945.908 million (2021 est.)
note: note: holdings of gold (year-end prices)/foreign exchange/special drawing rights in current dollars
Debt - external
Debt - external 2023: $1.451 billion (2023 est.)
note: note: present value of external debt in current US dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: present value of external debt in current US dollars
Exchange rates
Currency: leones (SLL) per US dollar -
Exchange rates 2023: 21.305 (2023 est.)
Exchange rates 2022: 14.048 (2022 est.)
Exchange rates 2021: 10.439 (2021 est.)
Exchange rates 2020: 9.83 (2020 est.)
Exchange rates 2019: 9.01 (2019 est.)
Reference: 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020Exchange rates 2023: 21.305 (2023 est.)
Exchange rates 2022: 14.048 (2022 est.)
Exchange rates 2021: 10.439 (2021 est.)
Exchange rates 2020: 9.83 (2020 est.)
Exchange rates 2019: 9.01 (2019 est.)
Trade
Current account balance
Current account balance 2023: -$606.358 million (2023 est.)
Current account balance 2022: -$452.094 million (2022 est.)
Current account balance 2021: -$522.815 million (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Reference: 2023, 2022, 2021Current account balance 2022: -$452.094 million (2022 est.)
Current account balance 2021: -$522.815 million (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Exports
Exports 2023: $1.382 billion (2023 est.)
Exports 2022: $1.202 billion (2022 est.)
Exports 2021: $928.689 million (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2023, 2022, 2021Exports 2022: $1.202 billion (2022 est.)
Exports 2021: $928.689 million (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Exports - partners
China 67%, India 6%, Belgium 5%, Netherlands 4%, Ireland 3% (2023)
note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Exports - commodities
iron ore, titanium ore, diamonds, aluminum ore, cocoa beans (2023)
note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Imports
Imports 2023: $2.264 billion (2023 est.)
Imports 2022: $2.074 billion (2022 est.)
Imports 2021: $1.91 billion (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2023, 2022, 2021Imports 2022: $2.074 billion (2022 est.)
Imports 2021: $1.91 billion (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Imports - partners
China 32%, India 15%, UAE 5%, USA 5%, Turkey 5% (2023)
note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Imports - commodities
rice, plastic products, packaged medicine, cement, cars (2023)
note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Energy & Resources
Electricity
installed generating capacity: 149,000 kW (2023 est.)
consumption: 131.321 million kWh (2023 est.)
transmission/distribution losses: 81.921 million kWh (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023consumption: 131.321 million kWh (2023 est.)
transmission/distribution losses: 81.921 million kWh (2023 est.)
Electricity generation sources
fossil fuels: 3.4% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
solar: 9.8% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
hydroelectricity: 84.4% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
biomass and waste: 2.3% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023solar: 9.8% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
hydroelectricity: 84.4% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
biomass and waste: 2.3% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Petroleum
refined petroleum consumption: 9,000 bbl/day (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Energy consumption per capita
Total energy consumption per capita 2023: 2.301 million Btu/person (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Infrastructure
Telephones - fixed lines
total subscriptions: 0 (2021 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: (2022 est.) less than 1
Reference: 2022, 2021subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: (2022 est.) less than 1
Health
Maternal mortality ratio
354 deaths/100,000 live births (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Health expenditure
Health expenditure (as % of GDP): 8.6% of GDP (2021)
Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 5.2% of national budget (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022, 2021Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 5.2% of national budget (2022 est.)
Physician density
0.13 physicians/1,000 population (2022)
Reference: 2022Obesity - adult prevalence rate
8.7% (2016)
Reference: 2016Tobacco use
total: 9.8% (2025 est.)
male: 14.8% (2025 est.)
female: 4.9% (2025 est.)
male: 14.8% (2025 est.)
female: 4.9% (2025 est.)
Education
Rights, Freedoms & Society
Press & Media Freedom
V-Dem expert-coded/modelled source measures. Knelstrom does not create a press-freedom ranking or composite score.
LGBTQ+ Rights & Law
Concrete legal-status fields only; Knelstrom does not generate an LGBTQ rights score or country ranking.
Source: Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory (CC BY-SA 4.0). Community-edited legal-status summary; retrieved by Knelstrom and not legal advice.
Crime & Justice
Legal system
mixed system of English common law and customary law
Judicial branch
highest court(s): Superior Court of Judicature (consists of the Supreme Court at the top, with the chief justice and 4 other judges, the Court of Appeal with the chief justice and 7 other judges, and the High Court of Justice with the chief justice and 9 other judges)
judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court chief justice and other judges of the Judicature appointed by the president on the advice of the Judicial and Legal Service Commission, a 7-member independent body of judges, presidential appointees, and the Commission chairman, and are subject to approval by Parliament; all Judicature judges serve until retirement at age 65
subordinate courts: magistrates' courts; District Appeals Court; local courts
judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court chief justice and other judges of the Judicature appointed by the president on the advice of the Judicial and Legal Service Commission, a 7-member independent body of judges, presidential appointees, and the Commission chairman, and are subject to approval by Parliament; all Judicature judges serve until retirement at age 65
subordinate courts: magistrates' courts; District Appeals Court; local courts
Military & Security
Military and security forces
Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF): organized as a Joint Force Command with land, air, and maritime components
Ministry of Internal Affairs: Sierra Leone Police (2025)
Ministry of Internal Affairs: Sierra Leone Police (2025)
Military expenditures
Military Expenditures 2024: 0.5% of GDP (2024 est.)
Military Expenditures 2023: 0.6% of GDP (2023 est.)
Military Expenditures 2022: 0.6% of GDP (2022 est.)
Military Expenditures 2021: 0.3% of GDP (2021 est.)
Military Expenditures 2020: 0.3% of GDP (2020 est.)
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021Military Expenditures 2023: 0.6% of GDP (2023 est.)
Military Expenditures 2022: 0.6% of GDP (2022 est.)
Military Expenditures 2021: 0.3% of GDP (2021 est.)
Military Expenditures 2020: 0.3% of GDP (2020 est.)
Military and security service personnel strengths
estimated 10,000 active Armed Forces (2025)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions
the RSLAF has a small inventory that includes a mix of Soviet-origin and other older foreign-supplied equipment; in recent years, it has received limited amounts of newer equipment, mostly as donations, such as patrol boats from China and South Korea (2024)
Reference: 2024Military service age and obligation
18-25 for voluntary military service for men and women; no conscription (2025)
Military - note
the RSLAF’s primary responsibilities are securing the country's borders and territorial waters, supporting civil authorities during internal emergencies, and participating in peacekeeping missions; since the end of the civil war in 2002, it has received assistance from several foreign militaries, including those of Canada, China, France, the UK, and the US
the RSLAF’s origins lie in the Sierra Leone Battalion of the Royal West African Frontier Force (RWAFF), a multi-regiment force formed by the British colonial office in 1900 to garrison the West African colonies of Gold Coast (Ghana), Nigeria (Lagos and the protectorates of Northern and Southern Nigeria), Sierra Leone, and The Gambia; the RWAFF fought in both World Wars (2025)
Reference: 2025, 2002, 1900the RSLAF’s origins lie in the Sierra Leone Battalion of the Royal West African Frontier Force (RWAFF), a multi-regiment force formed by the British colonial office in 1900 to garrison the West African colonies of Gold Coast (Ghana), Nigeria (Lagos and the protectorates of Northern and Southern Nigeria), Sierra Leone, and The Gambia; the RWAFF fought in both World Wars (2025)
International Relations
International law organization participation
has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
Diplomatic representation in the US
chief of mission: Ambassador Amara Sheikh Mohammed SOWA (since 24 July 2025)
chancery: 1701 19th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009-1605
telephone: [1] (202) 939-9261
FAX: [1] (202) 483-1793
email address and website: info@embassyofsierraleone.net
https://embassyofsierraleone.net/
chancery: 1701 19th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009-1605
telephone: [1] (202) 939-9261
FAX: [1] (202) 483-1793
email address and website: info@embassyofsierraleone.net
https://embassyofsierraleone.net/
Diplomatic representation from the US
chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Chargé d'Affaires Jared M. YANCEY (since 18 September 2025)
embassy: Southridge-Hill Station, Freetown
mailing address: 2160 Freetown Place, Washington DC 20521-2160
telephone: [232] 99 105 000
email address and website: consularfreetown@state.gov
https://sl.usembassy.gov/
embassy: Southridge-Hill Station, Freetown
mailing address: 2160 Freetown Place, Washington DC 20521-2160
telephone: [232] 99 105 000
email address and website: consularfreetown@state.gov
https://sl.usembassy.gov/
International organization participation
ACP, AfDB, ATMIS, AU, C, ECOWAS, EITI (compliant country), FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IHO (pending member), ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO (correspondent), ITU, ITUC (NGOs), MIGA, NAM, OIC, OPCW, UN, UNAMID, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNIFIL, UNISFA, UNOOSA, UNSOM, UNWTO, UPU, WCO, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Treaties & Organisations
| Organisation | Status | Joined |
|---|---|---|
| African Union (AU) | member | — |
| Commonwealth of Nations (Commonwealth) | member | 1961-00-00 |
| United Nations (UN) | member | 1961-09-27 |
| World Trade Organization (WTO) | member | — |
International law organization participation
has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
International organization participation
ACP, AfDB, ATMIS, AU, C, ECOWAS, EITI (compliant country), FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IHO (pending member), ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO (correspondent), ITU, ITUC (NGOs), MIGA, NAM, OIC, OPCW, UN, UNAMID, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNIFIL, UNISFA, UNOOSA, UNSOM, UNWTO, UPU, WCO, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Transportation & Logistics
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix
9L
Airports
8 (2025)
Heliports
3 (2025)
Merchant marine
total: 584 (2023)
by type: bulk carrier 33, container ship 8, general cargo 320, oil tanker 97, other 126
Reference: 2023by type: bulk carrier 33, container ship 8, general cargo 320, oil tanker 97, other 126
Ports
total ports: 3 (2024)
large: 0
medium: 0
small: 1
very small: 2
ports with oil terminals: 2
key ports: Bonthe, Freetown, Pepel
Reference: 2024large: 0
medium: 0
small: 1
very small: 2
ports with oil terminals: 2
key ports: Bonthe, Freetown, Pepel
Environment
Environmental issues
overharvesting of timber, expansion of cattle grazing, and slash-and-burn agriculture resulting in deforestation, soil exhaustion, and flooding; loss of biodiversity; air pollution; water pollution; overfishing
International environmental agreements
party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping-London Convention, Marine Dumping-London Protocol, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands
signed, but not ratified: Environmental Modification
signed, but not ratified: Environmental Modification
Climate
tropical; hot, humid; summer rainy season (May to December); winter dry season (December to April)
Land use
agricultural land: 54.7% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 21.9% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 2.3% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 30.5% (2023 est.)
forest: 34.3% (2023 est.)
other: 11% (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 21.9% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 2.3% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 30.5% (2023 est.)
forest: 34.3% (2023 est.)
other: 11% (2023 est.)
Urbanization
urban population: 44.3% of total population (2023)
rate of urbanization: 3.02% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Reference: 2023, 2020rate of urbanization: 3.02% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Carbon dioxide emissions
total emissions: 1.342 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
from petroleum and other liquids: 1.342 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023from petroleum and other liquids: 1.342 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
Particulate matter emissions
45.4 micrograms per cubic meter (2019 est.)
Reference: 2019Waste and recycling
municipal solid waste generated annually: 610,200 tons (2024 est.)
percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 9.7% (2022 est.)
Reference: 2024, 2022percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 9.7% (2022 est.)
Total water withdrawal
municipal: 111 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
industrial: 55.5 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
agricultural: 45.7 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022industrial: 55.5 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
agricultural: 45.7 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
Total renewable water resources
160 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022Communications & Media
Telephones - fixed lines
total subscriptions: 0 (2021 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: (2022 est.) less than 1
Reference: 2022, 2021subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: (2022 est.) less than 1
Broadcast media
1 state-owned TV station; 3 private TV stations; 1 pay-TV service; 1 state-owned national radio station; about 24 private radio stations; transmissions of several international broadcasters available (2019)
Reference: 2019Internet country code
.sl
Historical Trends
Population
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View Population data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 7,205,328 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2017 | 7,379,299 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2018 | 7,554,563 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2019 | 7,731,991 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2020 | 7,912,558 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2021 | 8,094,602 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2022 | 8,276,807 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2023 | 8,460,512 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | 8,642,022 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2025 | 8,819,794 | world_bank_wdi |
GDP (current US$)
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View GDP (current US$) data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | $6,084,297,211 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2017 | $5,749,846,528 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2018 | $6,390,514,689 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2019 | $6,523,577,590 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2020 | $6,688,307,706 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2021 | $7,166,931,483 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2022 | $7,121,125,277 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2023 | $6,415,852,766 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | $6,971,127,234 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2025 | $7,464,157,904 | world_bank_wdi |
International migrant stock (immigrants)
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View International migrant stock (immigrants) data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 53,746 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | 49,997 | world_bank_wdi |
International emigrant stock
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View International emigrant stock data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 1990 | 42,497 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 1995 | 423,611 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2000 | 459,995 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2005 | 89,467 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2010 | 57,946 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2015 | 59,400 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2020 | 64,980 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2024 | 63,631 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
Net migration
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View Net migration data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 4,657 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2017 | 1,234 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2018 | -2,741 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2019 | -2,238 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2020 | 1,292 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2021 | -1,544 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2022 | -4,000 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2023 | -4,000 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | -11,000 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2025 | -11,309 | world_bank_wdi |
Sources & Methodology
Current statistical observations include their reference period and provenance. Reference fields from approved source datasets are attributed below. Missing information is left unknown rather than inferred.
| Indicator | Value | Period | Source | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 8,819,794 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| UN Population Division population estimate | 8,996,745 | 2026 | UN Population Division Data Portal | Estimated |
| Wikidata population (fallback) | 7,557,212 | 2017 | Wikidata | Reported |
| International migrant stock (immigrants) | 49,997 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| International migrant stock | 0.6% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| International emigrant stock | 63,631 | 2024 | UN DESA International Migrant Stock 2024 | Estimated |
| Net migration | -11,309 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Refugees hosted | 0 | 2025 | UNHCR Refugee Population Statistics | Verified |
| Asylum seekers hosted | 0 | 2025 | UNHCR Refugee Population Statistics | Verified |
| Refugees from this country | 8,925 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Asylum seekers from this country | 8,342 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Freedom of expression & alternative information index | 0.823 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Government censorship effort — media | 1.867 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Harassment of journalists | 0.821 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Print/broadcast media critical of government | 1.763 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Range of perspectives in major media | 1.143 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Media bias | 0.934 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Media self-censorship | 0.866 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Same-sex sexual activity | No Male illegal since 1 November 1861 (as the Sierra Leone Colony and Protectorate); Penalty: Up to life imprisonment (not enforced, repeal disputed).; Yes Female always legal; + UN decl. sign. | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Recognition of same-sex relationships | No | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Same-sex marriage | No | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Same-sex adoption | No | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Open military service | No | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Sexual-orientation anti-discrimination law | Yes Bans some anti-gay discrimination. | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Gender identity / expression law | No | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| GDP (current US$) | $7,464,157,904 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| GDP per capita (current US$) | $846 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| GDP growth | 4.6% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Inflation, consumer prices | 7.5% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Unemployment | 3.2% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Income level | Low income | current | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Life expectancy at birth | 62.0 years | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Fertility rate | 3.7 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Urban population | 45.9% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Individuals using the Internet | 25.1% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Exports of goods and services | 20.9% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Imports of goods and services | 28.2% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Trade | 49.1% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Adult literacy rate | 43.6% | 2019 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Secondary school enrolment, gross | 86.9% | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Government education expenditure | 2.6% | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Access to electricity | 39.2% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Renewable energy consumption | 71.6% | 2022 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Current health expenditure | 4.7% | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Infant mortality rate | 54.6 per 1,000 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Forest area | 34.3% | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Mobile cellular subscriptions | 107.9 per 100 | 2022 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Fixed broadband subscriptions | 0.0 per 100 | 2021 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Secure Internet servers | 11 per million | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Latitude | 8.4821° | current | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Longitude | -13.2134° | current | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Latitude (Wikidata) | 8.5000° | current | Wikidata | Reported |
| Longitude (Wikidata) | -12.1000° | current | Wikidata | Reported |
| Time zone | UTC±00:00, Africa/Freetown | current | Wikidata | Reported |
| Form of government | presidential system | current | Wikidata | Reported |
Data attribution
Credits below are generated from sources actually used by this country profile. Source-specific terms take precedence.
- CIA World Factbook, final 2025 country profile (structured via factbook.json). Accessed September 20, 2026. U.S. Government public-domain data; retained as a reference source where a newer approved field is not available. Source · Terms/licence
- United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division, International Migrant Stock 2024; data access/processing via Our World in Data. Accessed September 20, 2026. Underlying UN dataset used under CC BY 3.0 IGO. Source · Terms/licence
- United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division, World Population Prospects (WPP indicator 49) Accessed September 19, 2026. Used under CC BY 3.0 IGO; current-year WPP population values are presented as estimates/projections where applicable. Source · Terms/licence
- UNHCR Refugee Population Statistics Database. Accessed September 19, 2026. Used under CC BY 4.0 except where a dataset identifies a different source or licence. Source · Terms/licence
- Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem), Country-Year Dataset v16 (variables: v2mebias, v2mecenefm, v2mecrit, v2meharjrn, v2merange, v2meslfcen, v2x_freexp_altinf) Accessed September 20, 2026. Used under CC BY-SA 4.0; V-Dem measures are expert-coded/modelled and no V-Dem endorsement is implied. Source · Terms/licence
- Wikidata structured data (CC0). Accessed September 20, 2026. Attribution is provided by Knelstrom for provenance although CC0 does not require it. Source · Terms/licence
- Wikipedia, “LGBTQ rights by country or territory” (source revision/data fields: Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Gender identity / expression law, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Open military service, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Recognition of same-sex relationships, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Same-sex adoption, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Same-sex marriage, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Same-sex sexual activity, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Sexual-orientation anti-discrimination law) Accessed September 20, 2026. Used under CC BY-SA 4.0. Knelstrom changes formatting and presents the imported material as a community-edited legal-status summary, not legal advice or a Knelstrom rights score. Source · Terms/licence
- World Bank, World Development Indicators (series: AG.LND.FRST.ZS, country_metadata, EG.ELC.ACCS.ZS, EG.FEC.RNEW.ZS, FP.CPI.TOTL.ZG, IT.CEL.SETS.P2, IT.NET.BBND.P2, IT.NET.SECR.P6, IT.NET.USER.ZS, NE.EXP.GNFS.ZS, NE.IMP.GNFS.ZS, NE.TRD.GNFS.ZS, NY.GDP.MKTP.CD, NY.GDP.MKTP.KD.ZG, NY.GDP.PCAP.CD, SE.ADT.LITR.ZS, SE.SEC.ENRR, SE.XPD.TOTL.GD.ZS, SH.XPD.CHEX.GD.ZS, SL.UEM.TOTL.ZS, SM.POP.ASYS.EO, SM.POP.NETM, SM.POP.RHCR.EO, SM.POP.TOTL, SM.POP.TOTL.ZS, SP.DYN.IMRT.IN, SP.DYN.LE00.IN, SP.DYN.TFRT.IN, SP.POP.TOTL, SP.URB.TOTL.IN.ZS) Accessed September 20, 2026. Data used under CC BY 4.0; Knelstrom presentation/formatting may differ from the source. Source · Terms/licence
Knelstrom does not imply endorsement by any listed data provider.
Last automated statistical refresh: 2026-09-20 02:10:32