Kingston-born Hugh Campbell and his Sierra Leonean wife, Neh Campbell, opened a local restaurant to bring Jamaican vibes to Freetown. Their mission goes beyond serving authentic cuisine—they are working to spotlight top Jamaican artists at local festivals
Kingston Beach Bar, celebrates shared heritage
In a move to honor the shared heritage and cultural ties between Jamaica and Africa, Kingston-born Hugh Campbell and his Sierra Leonean wife, Neh Campbell, opened Kingston Beach Bar in 2023 in Freetown, the capital of Sierra Leone.
Bringing the rich flavors of Jamaican cuisine to West Africa, the bar stands as a symbol of the deep historical connection between the two regions. This bond traces back to 1796, when the Jamaican Maroons, exiled after the Second Maroon War, were resettled in Sierra Leone. Their legacy thrives in landmarks such as St. John’s Maroon Church in Freetown and the enduring Maroon culture that remains vibrant today.
Kingston Beach Bar has evolved into more than a restaurant—it’s a cultural bridge. "We’re bridging the gap. The African people love Jamaican music," Hugh Campbell shared. "We’re working to get the word out and bring Jamaican artists to the music festival this year."
The Campbells actively support Sierra Leone’s cultural scene by sponsoring the Gbamgbaode Festival/Concert, with ambitious plans to bring top-tier Jamaican acts such as Shenseea, Popcaan, Buju Banton, Vybz Kartel, and Masicka to West African stages.
Through their efforts, Kingston Beach Bar fosters a celebration of shared history, blending the rich cultures of Jamaica and Sierra Leone into a unique and vibrant connection.
Comments