Makeni is the largest city located in the Northern Province region of Sierra Leone. It serves as the capital of the Bombali District and functions as the primary economic center for the northern part of the country. Located approximately 110 miles east of the national capital, Freetown, it ranks as the fifth largest city in Sierra Leone by population.
According to the 2021 census, Makeni had a recorded population of 85,116 residents. The city is notable for being home to the University of Makeni, which is recognized as the largest private university in Sierra Leone.