By: Audrey Raymonda John
On March 10, 2025, Sierra Leone took a significant step towards improving maritime safety with the launch of the National Hydrographic Governance Workshop, held at the New Brookfields Hotel in Freetown.
This workshop, in collaboration with the United Kingdom Hydrographic Office (UKHO) and the UK Government, marks a major milestone in the country’s commitment to enhancing hydrographic services, ensuring safer navigation, and meeting international maritime obligations under the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention.
The event opened with a speech by Mr. Emmanuel Lansana, Deputy Executive Director of the Sierra Leone Maritime Administration (SLMA), who welcomed all participants and expressed gratitude on behalf of SLMA. He highlighted the importance of the workshop in addressing Sierra Leone’s hydrographic challenges, noting that the 2019 IMO Member States Audit Scheme had revealed gaps in compliance with SOLAS obligations.
“Upon taking office last year, we recognised the urgency of acting on these findings. Through our 2023 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with UKHO, we have re-engaged our partners to enhance our hydrographic services, improve maritime safety, and ensure that vessels navigating our waters have access to reliable charts,” Mr. Lansana stated.
He also emphasised UKHO’s 225 years of expertise in maritime navigation, noting that over 90% of large international trading ships use their SOLAS-compliant charts and digital services. He concluded by thanking the UK Government for its continued support in strengthening Sierra Leone’s maritime infrastructure.
Hon. Dickson M. Rogers, Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Transport and Aviation, addressed the economic and environmental importance of hydrography, emphasising that accurate hydrographic data is crucial for navigation, marine safety, fishing, and tourism. He expressed that the partnership with UKHO reflects Sierra Leone’s commitment to international maritime standards, enabling access to advanced technologies and expertise to improve marine governance.
Hon. Bintu Myers, Chairperson of the SLMA Board of Directors, described the workshop as a historic milestone in Sierra Leone’s maritime development. She stressed the need for specialised equipment and technical expertise to meet international compliance standards, adding that the outcome would be a comprehensive National Hydrographic Action Plan to guide the country in conducting hydrographic surveys, mapping hazards, and reducing maritime accidents.
The Deputy Minister of Transport and Aviation, Hon. Rex Bhonapha, reiterated the government’s commitment to implementing hydrographic reforms. He referenced the February 2023 UKHO/IALA Technical Assessment Report, which led to the November 2023 Agreement for Cooperation between SLMA and UKHO. “A proper National Hydrographic Governance System aligns with His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio’s Big Five Game Changers, particularly in protecting lives at sea and creating maritime jobs,” he said.
Hon. Bhonapha also announced plans to establish a National Hydrographic Committee to oversee the implementation of the National Hydrographic Action Plan, ensuring that Sierra Leone develops its own nautical products and publications. He expressed gratitude for the seabed survey equipment and training provided by UKHO, which will enhance local capacity in hydrographic surveying. “As we chart this new course, we encourage young graduates in STEM fields to explore careers in hydrography, which offers immense opportunities,” he added.
In the closing remarks, the workshop aimed to develop a cohesive hydrographic governance framework that addresses data collection, chart production, compliance with international maritime standards, and marine safety. Participants, including maritime professionals, government representatives, and international experts, are expected to devise strategies that will transform Sierra Leone into a competitive maritime nation.
The British High Commissioner, Josephine Gauld, expressed her delight at the impressive turnout of various organizations and institutions, highlighting the significant impact and interest in the workshop. “This initiative will not only improve international infrastructure but also contribute to economic growth by enhancing the efficiency of international trade,” she said. She emphasised the UK’s recognition of the importance of maritime trade for the import and export of goods, which is crucial to economic growth.
David Parker, Head of the UK Hydrographic Office, gave a presentation on the National Hydrographic Governance Initiative, explaining the benefits of hydrographic surveys. He noted that surveys have a high return on investment, with each additional 30 cm of depth shown on a chart allowing at least 2,000 tonnes more cargo to be carried, reducing CO2 emissions. Improved surveys and charts can also lead to reduced insurance rates for shipping and contribute to the development of the Blue Economy.
Parker further explained that the purpose of the workshop was to continue the long-standing relationship between SLMA and UKHO, helping Sierra Leone meet its international obligations and identifying the steps needed for success in hydrographic development. He also emphasised the importance of ensuring that navigational charts and publications are accurate and up-to-date to reduce risks for mariners.
The workshop’s outcome will guide Sierra Leone in achieving its goals, supporting its maritime industry, and realising the broader benefits of the Blue Economy.
