The seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Makeni sits a short walk north of the central market, a plain white church with a slim bell tower visible above the rooftops. Sunday Mass is the main event, with parishioners spilling out into the courtyard, but on weekdays the church is usually open and quiet.
The Catholic Church has been a major presence in northern Sierra Leone since the mid-twentieth century, running schools, hospitals, and the local university. The cathedral is the visible centre of that network. Visitors are welcome to step inside; dress modestly and leave a small donation in the box at the back if you feel moved to.