By: Festus Justus Margai- MoICE Regional Strategic Coordinator South.
Hilton (NYSE: HLT) has announced accelerated growth across Africa, signing a record 29 deals in 2025 across 15 countries. The global hospitality company is set to open more than 100 hotels across the continent, creating over 20,000 job opportunities.
In Sierra Leone, Hilton has signed a deal with FB Group to open Hilton Garden Inn Freetown Airport, marking the country’s first internationally branded airport hotel. The hotel is expected to open later this year and will feature 110 contemporary guest rooms, a lobby café, restaurant, fitness centre, outdoor pool, and four meeting rooms.
The signing of this deal is a significant milestone for Sierra Leone, demonstrating the country’s growing appeal as a destination for international investment and tourism. The hotel is part of an ongoing airport expansion project, which will transform the site into a hub for international business and exhibitions.
Sierra Leone’s Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, has welcomed the news, saying, “This is a great opportunity for Sierra Leone to showcase its potential as a destination for business and leisure travel. We are committed to working with Hilton to ensure the success of this project and to promote the growth of our tourism sector.”
The Hilton Garden Inn Freetown Airport will provide a much-needed boost to Sierra Leone’s economy, creating jobs and stimulating growth in the hospitality sector. The hotel will also provide a platform for local businesses to connect with international partners and showcase their products and services.
Hilton’s expansion in Sierra Leone is part of its broader strategy to grow its presence in Sub-Saharan Africa. The company has signed deals in several other countries, including Gabon, Chad, Zambia, and South Africa.
Carlos Khneisser, chief development officer, Middle East & Africa, Hilton, said, “Sub-Saharan Africa remains a strategically important growth region for Hilton, where we continue to see strong long-term potential driven by expanding business hubs, improving connectivity, and increasing investment in tourism infrastructure.”
The signing of the Hilton Garden Inn Freetown Airport deal is a testament to Sierra Leone’s progress in promoting economic growth and development. The country has made significant strides in recent years, improving its business environment and attracting foreign investment.
Sierra Leone is poised to become a major player in the region, and Hilton’s investment in the country is a vote of confidence in its potential. With the opening of the Hilton Garden Inn Freetown Airport, Sierra Leone is set to take its place on the global tourism map.
