Who we are
A Vision of Afrofuturism
It felt like the world was leaving Africa behind. With Ai technologies running on fast forward, electric vehicles on the rise and the strive for the all-important SDG’s by 2030, juxtaposed with most African countries struggling to keep up, it was overwhelming as to know HOW to contribute. Yes, there has been progress in visualising an African future facing city, but mainly in the creative industries and mainly funded by those who adamantly believe in global African inclusion.
2020 was a quiet time for reflection and thought. We began thinking we could build an agricultural school for girls knowing that Africa will soon become the breadbasket of the world. It was a start. So, we went back to my home village and asked for 50 acres of land. After much discussion with the Elders, we were given 2000 acres to do with as we wished, with a promise to elevate the village of Matamp.
It got me thinking. And the thought went like this. “Why build a school when we could build a city?” A quick google search on how to build a city told us that the first point of entry was to have land. Check. The rest was elementary – as they say.
The questions then became, what type of city? Who would fund it? Could we create a truly equitable and inclusive city from inception? What does afro futurism really mean? Would the African Diaspora have somewhere 'new' to call home? Would they back it? What if we could create a blueprint for a smart high-tech future African city, that leapfrogged into a new world which has not even been visualised yet? What if we incorporated, circularity, sustainability and regenerative practices that underpinned the city as a principle reducing and or eliminating the challenges of built-up communities? What if?
2020 was a quiet time for reflection and thought. We began thinking we could build an agricultural school for girls knowing that Africa will soon become the breadbasket of the world. It was a start. So, we went back to my home village and asked for 50 acres of land. After much discussion with the Elders, we were given 2000 acres to do with as we wished, with a promise to elevate the village of Matamp.
It got me thinking. And the thought went like this. “Why build a school when we could build a city?” A quick google search on how to build a city told us that the first point of entry was to have land. Check. The rest was elementary – as they say.
The questions then became, what type of city? Who would fund it? Could we create a truly equitable and inclusive city from inception? What does afro futurism really mean? Would the African Diaspora have somewhere 'new' to call home? Would they back it? What if we could create a blueprint for a smart high-tech future African city, that leapfrogged into a new world which has not even been visualised yet? What if we incorporated, circularity, sustainability and regenerative practices that underpinned the city as a principle reducing and or eliminating the challenges of built-up communities? What if?
Reset and Re Birthed
Like all good conception stories, we soon realised that this city would be the very first female devised city in the world! If we could design an inclusive city that was created for humanity, what would that city look and feel like? How could we create architecture that informed behaviour? How could we collaborate with those silent voices who needed their voices heard? And finally, what if the city felt like the safety of your mother’s embrace? Many questions I know, but it starts with curiosity. We had everything to gain, and thus Matamp City was born.
Rich Culturally Thriving Communities.
The beauty of Matamp City is that the land is community owned. This means we get to build generational wealth for ALL the landowners having an incalculable impact on the community and Sierra Leone as a whole. The cultures and traditions that were once at risk of being lost due to globalisation can now be restored, regenerated and elevated as a gift to the world.
Naomi Sesay
With over 30 years of experience in television and media, Naomi Sesay has dedicated her broadcast career to being a formidable advocate for diversity and inclusion and a pioneer in social enterprise. As the CEO of SWIIPE Ltd, a passive income wealth creation company, Naomi exemplifies the transformative power of a diverse workforce evoking equity as a basic principle.
Since 2004, Naomi has been investing, buying, and building properties in the UK, Spain, and Sierra Leone. She recognised that ownership, wealth creation, and education are pivotal to unlocking potential.
Drawing from principles of quantum physics, personal development, and business strategies, Naomi founded the personal development and wealth creation companies, Billionaire Ladies Club and Swiipe Wealth. These ventures empower entrepreneurs to develop grand visions which can then be broken down into actionable steps. In 2008, Naomi, alongside a group of entrepreneurs who attended her workshops, undertook the project of building a secondary school in Matamp village, Sierra Leone, her mother’s birthplace.
Inspired by her mother, who established a primary health care unit in Matamp village and built homes to provide shelter during the 10-year civil war, Naomi embarked upon her most ambitious social enterprise yet by developing the very first smart and sustainable female-centric city in Sierra Leone, West Africa. Naomi has invited numerous organisations to join her in this groundbreaking opportunity to create an equitable, regenerative, and eco-first city. This initiative serves as a blueprint for how future cities can function collectively and sustainably, demonstrating a vision of a brighter, more inclusive world.
Since 2004, Naomi has been investing, buying, and building properties in the UK, Spain, and Sierra Leone. She recognised that ownership, wealth creation, and education are pivotal to unlocking potential.
Drawing from principles of quantum physics, personal development, and business strategies, Naomi founded the personal development and wealth creation companies, Billionaire Ladies Club and Swiipe Wealth. These ventures empower entrepreneurs to develop grand visions which can then be broken down into actionable steps. In 2008, Naomi, alongside a group of entrepreneurs who attended her workshops, undertook the project of building a secondary school in Matamp village, Sierra Leone, her mother’s birthplace.
Inspired by her mother, who established a primary health care unit in Matamp village and built homes to provide shelter during the 10-year civil war, Naomi embarked upon her most ambitious social enterprise yet by developing the very first smart and sustainable female-centric city in Sierra Leone, West Africa. Naomi has invited numerous organisations to join her in this groundbreaking opportunity to create an equitable, regenerative, and eco-first city. This initiative serves as a blueprint for how future cities can function collectively and sustainably, demonstrating a vision of a brighter, more inclusive world.
Our Team
Passionate, determined, experts who love to see global impact.
Afrofuturism
Coined by cultural critic Mark Dery, I believe Afrofuturism reimagines a highly technological world, fused with environmentally first principles which is seated squarely in the heart of the African psyche. We travel a full loop of past traditional, tools, practices and methodologies and remake them new for a future facing Africa that will forever be beyond our present.
Our values
These are the values that guide our decision making and inform our actions as we work towards creating a vibrant, connected and sustainable community.
Our mission
MATAMP City project is dedicated to creating a vibrant, connected, and sustainable community that thrives in a spirit of inclusivity, resilience, and innovation. We will work together with residents, businesses, and government to achieve this vision by promoting access to essential services, fostering community engagement, and developing sustainable practices that benefit all.
Our mission is to create a new city that serves as a model for sustainable urban development. MATAMP City will leverage cutting-edge technologies, efficient infrastructure, and community engagement to improve the quality of life for its residents, foster economic growth, and promote environmental sustainability.
MATAMP City is a visionary undertaking that seeks to revolutionise urban living in the heart of the country and set a new standard for sustainable urban development in the region. With the goal of creating a modern, efficient, and connected city, this project will leverage state-of-the-art technologies, innovative infrastructure, and community engagement to enhance the quality of life for residents, drive economic growth, and promote environmental sustainability.
In response to the rapid urbanisation and challenges faced by traditional cities in Sierra Leone, MATAMP City Project aims to address key issues such as inadequate infrastructure, limited access to essential services, traffic congestion, environmental degradation, and inefficient resource management. By reimagining the urban landscape and embracing smart solutions, the project seeks to create a thriving and resilient city that is designed to become the model that meets the needs of its residents in a sustainable and inclusive manner.
Through a holistic approach that integrates smart technologies, green initiatives, economic opportunities, and community participation, MATAMP City represents a transformative opportunity to shape the future of urban development in Sierra Leone. By fostering collaboration among government agencies, private sector partners, civil society organizations, and local communities, the project aspires to create a vibrant and dynamic urban environment that reflects the values of innovation, sustainability, and citizen-centricity.
Our mission is to create a new city that serves as a model for sustainable urban development. MATAMP City will leverage cutting-edge technologies, efficient infrastructure, and community engagement to improve the quality of life for its residents, foster economic growth, and promote environmental sustainability.
MATAMP City is a visionary undertaking that seeks to revolutionise urban living in the heart of the country and set a new standard for sustainable urban development in the region. With the goal of creating a modern, efficient, and connected city, this project will leverage state-of-the-art technologies, innovative infrastructure, and community engagement to enhance the quality of life for residents, drive economic growth, and promote environmental sustainability.
In response to the rapid urbanisation and challenges faced by traditional cities in Sierra Leone, MATAMP City Project aims to address key issues such as inadequate infrastructure, limited access to essential services, traffic congestion, environmental degradation, and inefficient resource management. By reimagining the urban landscape and embracing smart solutions, the project seeks to create a thriving and resilient city that is designed to become the model that meets the needs of its residents in a sustainable and inclusive manner.
Through a holistic approach that integrates smart technologies, green initiatives, economic opportunities, and community participation, MATAMP City represents a transformative opportunity to shape the future of urban development in Sierra Leone. By fostering collaboration among government agencies, private sector partners, civil society organizations, and local communities, the project aspires to create a vibrant and dynamic urban environment that reflects the values of innovation, sustainability, and citizen-centricity.
Governance
“Building a New City, Together: The Governance of MATAMP City”
In the heart of Sierra Leone, a new chapter is being written in the story of urban development. MATAMP City, a vision of innovation and community, is rising from the ground up. This is a city that’s built on the principles of inclusivity, sustainability, and progress.
At the helm of this exciting new project is a governance structure that ensures transparency, accountability, and community engagement. Our governance model is designed to be participatory, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of our residents.
The MATAMP City Project Governance Board is comprised of representatives from various stakeholder groups, including local government, community leaders, business owners, and residents. This board sets the overall vision and direction for the project, ensuring that it aligns with the needs and priorities of the community.
The project is managed by a professional team responsible for implementing the project’s strategic plan. This team works closely with the Governance Board to ensure that all decisions are made with transparency and accountability.
One of the key pillars of our governance structure is community engagement. We believe that every voice matters, and that’s why we’re committed to involving residents in every stage of the development process. From public consultations to town hall meetings, we’re dedicated to ensuring that our residents have a say in shaping the future of their city.
But governance isn’t just about decision-making – it’s also about ensuring that our city is sustainable and resilient for generations to come. That’s why we’re incorporating cutting-edge technologies and innovative practices into our design and operations.
As we build MATAMP City, we’re not just constructing buildings and infrastructure – we’re creating a legacy. A legacy of community, innovation, and progress that will be felt for generations to come. Join us as we write this next chapter in the story of MATAMP City. Together, let’s build a brighter future for all.
Location
Sierra Leone
MATAMP CITY project will be built in the village of MATAMP, Tonkolili District which is located in the northern provinces of Sierra Leone. It is strategically located in the center of Sierra Leone and its capital city is Magburaka. MATAMP Village, is located at approximately 7.5747° N latitude and 12.4428° W longitude. It resides in the heart of the nation, making MATAMP City, equidistance from all corners of the country. We have approximately 2000 acres of ancestral land to develop.
Tonkolili District
In the heart of Sierra Leone’s Northern Province lies Tonkolili District, a region of vast natural resources and rich cultural heritage. The district’s capital, Magburaka, is home to the largest sugar factory in the country and one of the largest in West Africa. With a population of over 530,000 people, Tonkolili is a hub of activity, with eleven chiefdoms and numerous rivers, including the Pampana and Rokel, crisscrossing the area.
The district’s economy is driven by extractive industries, with significant deposits of iron ore, bauxite, gold, and diamonds. The African Minerals Tonkolili Project, one of the largest iron ore deposits in Africa, is located in the hills around Bumbuna, Mabonto, and Bendugu. Agriculture also plays a vital role, with Addax Petroleum operating a bio energy company in Mar constituency 60 and Complant’s Magbass sugar production facility and refinery being major contributors. A rubber factory is set to be established in Mile 91, while hydroelectric power systems at Bumbuna and a game reserve at Mamunta add to the district’s economic potential.
However, Tonkolili’s development was hindered by the devastating effects of the 1991-2002 civil war, which destroyed many facilities and infrastructure. Education was particularly affected, with 66% of schools in the district completely destroyed during this period. Despite these challenges, efforts have been made to rebuild and expand education services. As of 2004, the district was home to 310 primary schools and 15 secondary schools. Today, there are 637 schools in Tonkolili, with an increase in primary school enrollment since the end of the war. However, challenges persist, including a shortage of schools and teachers, as well as limited access to clean water and sanitation facilities. Despite these hurdles, Tonkolili remains a vital part of Sierra Leone’s economy and culture.
Matamp - Why this region
Nestled in a strategic location, Matamp City is poised to become a game-changer for Sierra Leone, connecting the country's regions and fostering economic growth.
The region is teeming with natural resources, from iron ore deposits to fertile soil, offering endless opportunities for mining, agriculture, and infrastructure development. But it's not just about economic potential – Matamp City is also a haven for biodiversity and conservation. The Kangari Hills Forest Reserve and the Mayosso Wildlife Sanctuary are just a stone's throw away, providing a haven for threatened species like the Dwarf Crocodile, Western Chimpanzee, and Red Colobus monkey.
As you explore Matamp City, you'll discover scenic landscapes, rivers, and cultural heritage sites waiting to be developed into tourist attractions. Imagine strolling through lush forests, spotting exotic birds and primates, or taking a boat ride along the winding rivers. The city's rich cultural heritage will be woven into every aspect of daily life, from traditional music and dance to vibrant markets and festivals.
By integrating eco-tourism with sustainable urban planning, Matamp City will become a beacon for research and development, preservation of Sierra Leone's unique biodiversity, and cultural pride. This is more than just a city – it's a living, breathing ecosystem that thrives on harmony between nature and humanity.
As you step into Matamp City, you'll be immersed in a world where innovation meets sustainability, where technology meets tradition, and where people come together to build a brighter future. This is the vision of Matamp City – a place where nature and culture entwine, where progress meets preservation, and where the beauty of Sierra Leone comes alive.
The region is teeming with natural resources, from iron ore deposits to fertile soil, offering endless opportunities for mining, agriculture, and infrastructure development. But it's not just about economic potential – Matamp City is also a haven for biodiversity and conservation. The Kangari Hills Forest Reserve and the Mayosso Wildlife Sanctuary are just a stone's throw away, providing a haven for threatened species like the Dwarf Crocodile, Western Chimpanzee, and Red Colobus monkey.
As you explore Matamp City, you'll discover scenic landscapes, rivers, and cultural heritage sites waiting to be developed into tourist attractions. Imagine strolling through lush forests, spotting exotic birds and primates, or taking a boat ride along the winding rivers. The city's rich cultural heritage will be woven into every aspect of daily life, from traditional music and dance to vibrant markets and festivals.
By integrating eco-tourism with sustainable urban planning, Matamp City will become a beacon for research and development, preservation of Sierra Leone's unique biodiversity, and cultural pride. This is more than just a city – it's a living, breathing ecosystem that thrives on harmony between nature and humanity.
As you step into Matamp City, you'll be immersed in a world where innovation meets sustainability, where technology meets tradition, and where people come together to build a brighter future. This is the vision of Matamp City – a place where nature and culture entwine, where progress meets preservation, and where the beauty of Sierra Leone comes alive.