Sierra Leone flag

Sierra Leone

Republic of Sierra Leone

Capital

Freetown

Region

Africa

Population

9,077,691

Area (km²)

71,740

💡Quick Summary

Sierra Leone, a West African nation with a population of around 9 million, spans 71,740 km² and boasts Freetown as its vibrant capital city. Rich in natural resources like diamonds and rutile, the country has rebounded from a devastating civil war (1991-2002) and Ebola crisis, focusing on economic recovery and ecotourism. Despite challenges, its stunning beaches, rainforests, and cultural diversity make it a hidden gem in Africa.

Key Insights

High Infant Mortality Challenge

The infant mortality rate stands at a high 56.200 deaths per 1,000 live births, indicating a major public health crisis and poor maternal/child healthcare outcomes. This rate is significantly higher than the global average and directly contributes to the lower overall life expectancy of 61.79 years.

Forest Cover Resilience

Sierra Leone maintains a relatively high percentage of forest cover, with 34.299% of its land area still forested. This represents a significant natural resource asset and potential for carbon sequestration, contrasting with the country's intense development pressures and low economic standing.

Significant Urbanization Despite Low Development

Nearly 45% (44.809%) of Sierra Leone's population lives in urban areas, which is a significant level of urbanization for a country with a low GDP per capita ($758.33). This high urban concentration puts immense pressure on infrastructure and services in cities like Freetown, especially given that only 35.500% of the population has access to electricity.

High Fertility and Young Population Growth

The high fertility rate of 3.79 children per woman indicates significant population momentum, suggesting the population will continue to grow rapidly in the coming decades. This high birth rate is a major factor contributing to the country's relatively low life expectancy of 61.79 years, typical of developing nations facing high infant mortality and limited healthcare access.

Economic Indicators
Latest economic data from World Bank

GDP (Current US$)

$6.42B

Year: 2023

GDP Per Capita

$758.33

GDP Growth (%)

5.71%

Inflation (%)

47.64%

Unemployment (%)

3.15%

Debt to GDP (%)

N/A%

Source: World Bank • Last updated: 12/24/2025

Historical Trends & Data Visualizations

GDP Growth Rate
Annual percentage change in GDP over time
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023-8.00%-4.00%0.00%4.00%8.00%
  • GDP Growth (%)
Population Growth
Total population over time
201420152016201720182019202020212022202302,500,0005,000,0007,500,00010,000,000
  • Population
Life Expectancy
Average life expectancy at birth (years)
20142015201620172018201920202021202220230.0years20.0years40.0years60.0years80.0years
  • Life Expectancy (years)
Renewable Energy Consumption
Percentage of total energy from renewable sources
2014201520162017201820192020202120220.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%
  • Renewable Energy (%)
GDP Per Capita
Economic output per person (current US$)
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023$0$300$600$900$1,200
  • GDP Per Capita ($)

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