Freetown Shopping Spree

From the historic downtown souvenir market to a hip nonprofit shop, here’s lowdown on where to spend your shopping bucks in Sierra Leone’s capital city.

Big Markit

Founded in the 18^th century, the Big Markit has transitioned over the centuries from its original function as an eclectic food and goods emporium for local shoppers into the city’s top souvenir spot. Spread across two floors, dozens of stalls offer traditional arts and crafts like paintings, carvings, musical instruments, and woven items like the celebrated shukublai baskets made by the Temne tribe. (On Wallace Johnson Street near St. George’s Cathedral)

Aurora Foundation Shop

An Icelandic nonprofit founded in 2007 to encourage private enterprise in Sierra Leone, the Aurora shop offers art, crafts and fashion created by its budding “Sweet Salone” entrepreneurs. The selection includes woodcarving, baskets, pottery, jewelry and clothing for children and adults. (2^nd floor, 186 Wilkinson Road near the Lumley Roundabout; tel 232.7972.8574)

Madam Wokie

A stylish fashion brand and social enterprise founded by Marynn Kaikai, Madam Wokie designs exclusive, durable and affordable African-inspired garments and accessories. The name was inspired by Marynn’s maternal great-grandmother, Madam Wokie Massaquoi, one of the few female paramount chiefs in post-colonial Sierra Leone. (by appointment at madamwokie@gmail.com)

Malama Thomas Street

This narrow, crowded, chaotic lane in downtown Freetown is one of the best places in the capital to browse and buy the brightly colored Sierra Leone textiles that are gaining renown around the globe. Nearby Siaka Stevens and Ecowas streets are also chockfull of cloth and clothing stalls.

Lumley Beach Arts & Crafts Centre

This miniature version of the Big Markit offers a similar selection of local arts and crafts across the street from Freetown’s most popular beach. (Lumley Beach Rd at Kingston Upon Hull Way)

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