[Video] Relive the moment Sierra Leone gained its independence in 1961

In 1961, when Sierra Leone got its independence from Britain, there were celebrations all across the country. Three days public holiday was declared, and people were in a happy mood decorating the city with new national colours.

Sierra Leonians who dressed up in garments with the inscription “Independence 27 April 1961. Sierra Leone” also took part in a series of celebratory events including a mass conducted by the Archbishop of York and a canoe competition and dances.

Among the dignitaries were Nigeria’s Prime Minister Alhaji Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa.

The changing of the colours happened on April 26, 1961, with the light of the British flag turned off at 11.59pm and the flag of the new independent Sierra Leone unveiled for the first time.

Queen Elizabeth II sent in her stead her cousin, Prince Edward, who handed over the constitutional instruments to Prime Minister Sir Milton Margai, to the applause of the representatives in Parliament.

This marked the independence of the West African Nation.

Here’s the video.