This content was generated using artificial intelligence based on publicly available information. It is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, immigration, or professional advice. Information may be incomplete or outdated. Always verify with official sources before making decisions.
Data Source: Safety, crime, and quality metrics are sourced from Numbeo, a crowd-sourced global database of reported data.
All scores are relative comparisons on a 0-100 scale, where 50 = global average. Higher scores mean better than average, lower scores mean worse than average.
Kenema offers a raw, authentic immersion into Sierra Leone’s eastern interior, making it a compelling base for those working in development, agriculture, or regional NGOs. Life here moves at a human pace, defined by close-knit community ties and a landscape that feels deeply connected to the land. It is a place for the resilient professional who values cultural depth over urban polish.
While you will find reliable local transport and a functional level of healthcare, the lifestyle requires a high degree of self-sufficiency. You should expect a modest cost of living, but be prepared for the trade-off of limited Western-style amenities and a more rugged infrastructure compared to coastal hubs.
Population
143,137
Area
-
Density
-
Founded
-
Language
English
Distance to Coast
108 km
Districts & Neighborhoods in Kenema
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Climate & Weather in Kenema
Kenema has a tropical monsoon climate (Köppen Am) with consistently warm temperatures, very high humidity, and a long wet season from roughly May to October. Annual rainfall is extremely high at about 2,600–2,700 mm, while the drier season from November to April is shorter and less intense than the wet season.
Summer Average
27°C
Winter Average
25°C
Climate Type
Tropical Monsoon
Rainy Days
240
Sunny Days
140
Humidity
88%
Spring
March - May
26-30°C
Temperatures rise slightly toward the start of the wet season, and humidity becomes very high. Rainfall increases sharply by May, with frequent showers and thunderstorms.
High rainfall
Summer
June - August
25-28°C
This is the core of the rainy season, with heavy and frequent rainfall, persistent cloud cover, and warm but less extreme daytime temperatures. Conditions are usually humid and overcast.
Very High rainfall
Autumn
September - November
25-29°C
Rainfall remains high in September and October before easing in November as the dry season begins. The air stays warm and humid, though sunshine increases later in the season.
High rainfall
Winter
December - February
24-27°C
Winter is the driest period, though it remains warm rather than cool, with brief harmattan influence possible in December to February. Skies are generally clearer and rainfall is much lower than in the wet months.
Moderate rainfall
Loading Weather...
Air Quality
Kenema
Advantages
Kenema
Abundant educational institutions
Strong community spirit
Affordable cost of living
Growing business opportunities
Access to natural parks
Disadvantages
Kenema
Limited higher education options
Few job opportunities locally
Inadequate infrastructure development
Minimal entertainment venues
Weak business ecosystem
Safety & Security in Kenema
Overall Safety Score
Includes resilience and environmental factors
Moderate
55
/100
Sierra Leone Avg
54
Africa Avg
54
Worldwide Avg
56
Crime & Safety Metrics
Thermometer compares Kenema to Sierra Leone averages using different marker styles.Compare:
Kenema
Sierra Leone Average
No city-specific data available — showing Sierra Leone country averages instead.
Safety Index
0510
Low
Safety from Crime
0510
Concerning
Safe Alone (Day)
0510
Low
Safe Alone (Night)
0510
Critical
Safety from Violent Crime
0510
Concerning
Safety from Property Crime
0510
Dangerous
Environmental & Natural Hazard Risks
Resilience Score: 81/100
No data for Kenema — showing hazard indicators from nearby Gueckedou (~138 km).
