By: Aminata Sesay
The Parliament of Sierra Leone on Tuesday ratified a series of key aviation protocols and supplementary acts designed to improve regional air transport, reduce passenger costs, and enhance aviation safety and security across West Africa.
During the parliamentary session, the Deputy Minister of Transport and Aviation presented the protocols, which were originally tabled on 26 December 2023. The agreements aim to harmonize air transport regulations among ECOWAS member states. They cover areas such as market access to ground handling services, approval of air carriers, passenger tariffs, flight delays and cancellations, and competition in air transport services.
The Deputy Minister emphasized that Sierra Leone’s airports will undergo strategic expansion and modernization to meet growing passenger demand. Planned improvements include upgrades to access roads and operational infrastructure. He assured Members of Parliament that the Ministry of Transport and Aviation is committed to the effective implementation of the protocols, noting that the reforms will promote regional integration and stimulate economic growth through tourism and trade.
The protocols originate from directives issued by the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government during its 65th Ordinary Session in Abuja, Nigeria. At that meeting, leaders expressed concern over the high cost of air travel within West Africa and called for coordinated efforts to reduce taxes, fees, and other charges. The measures also establish a framework for enforcing aviation security standards, safety regulations, and technical compliance throughout the region.
During the debate, Hon. Aaron Aruna Koroma, Leader of the Opposition, questioned the delay in ratifying some of the agreements, noting that certain protocols had been signed as far back as 2012. He observed that Sierra Leonean travelers have long faced some of the highest airfares in Africa and urged the government to ensure that ratification results in tangible benefits for passengers while promoting transparency within the aviation sector.
In response, Hon. Matthew Nyuma, Leader of Government Business, underscored the importance of liberalizing airspace and harmonizing aviation regulations across West and Central Africa. He stated that the protocols will address inconsistencies in slot allocation, denied boarding procedures, ground handling operations, and competition rules, thereby ensuring safer, more affordable, and more reliable air travel for citizens.
Following deliberations, the motion was unanimously approved, signaling Parliament’s commitment to aligning Sierra Leone’s aviation sector with regional and international standards.