The Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA) has successfully concluded an eight-day ferry support operation for the 2026 Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Mid-Year Summit, reaffirming its critical role in promoting national development, strengthening maritime connectivity, and demonstrating Sierra Leone’s preparedness to host major international events.
Throughout the summit, SLPHA conducted six daily ferry crossings between Freetown and Lungi, providing safe, efficient, and seamless transportation for Heads of State, senior government officials, diplomats, journalists, security personnel, and other delegates attending one of West Africa’s most important diplomatic gatherings.
Among the distinguished passengers transported by the Authority were His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio and First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio; Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh; and the Presidents of The Gambia, H.E. Adama Barrow; Senegal, H.E. Bassirou Diomaye Faye; Mauritania, H.E. Mohamed Ould Ghazouani; and Cabo Verde, H.E. José Maria Neves. The operation also facilitated the movement of Cabinet Ministers, Ministers of State from across the ECOWAS region, ambassadors accredited to Sierra Leone, including representatives from the Islamic Republic of Iran and the People’s Republic of China, as well as other official delegates.
To ensure smooth and efficient operations throughout the summit, SLPHA deployed personnel across its three ferry terminals — Government Wharf, Kissy Ferry Terminal, and Tagrin Ferry Terminal. Staff worked tirelessly to provide professional assistance, effective coordination, and Sierra Leonean hospitality to passengers travelling aboard the Authority’s ferry, MV Muzuk.
Providing visible leadership throughout the operation was the Director General of SLPHA, Yankuba Askia Bio, who remained actively engaged in the coordination of ferry services. The Director General was frequently present at the terminals and aboard MV Muzuk, where he personally monitored operations, assisted with the orderly movement of passengers and vehicles, engaged with delegates, and supported staff to ensure that every crossing was conducted safely and efficiently.
His hands-on leadership style received commendation from passengers and observers, many of whom praised his humility, dedication, and commitment to public service. Several delegates also applauded the professionalism demonstrated by SLPHA and recognized the Authority’s contribution to the Government’s successful hosting of the summit.
Earlier during the operation, the Deputy Minister of Transport and Aviation, Rex Bonapha, commended SLPHA after inspecting ferry operations aboard MV Muzuk. He described the Authority’s service delivery and hospitality as “top notch,” noting that the commitment demonstrated by public institutions is essential in supporting Government during events of national and international significance. He encouraged other state institutions to emulate SLPHA’s example.
The successful completion of the operation highlights the dedication, discipline, and teamwork of SLPHA’s terminal personnel, operational teams, security officers, and support staff, whose combined efforts ensured uninterrupted ferry services throughout the summit.
Director General Yankuba Askia Bio expressed appreciation to all SLPHA staff for their professionalism, resilience, and commitment during the intensive eight-day operation. He stated that the success of the mission was achieved through teamwork, dedication, and a shared determination to serve Sierra Leone with excellence.
“The commitment demonstrated by our staff throughout this operation has been exceptional. Their professionalism, discipline, and dedication ensured that we delivered a service worthy of the confidence placed in us by Government. I sincerely thank every member of the SLPHA family for making this mission a success,” the Director General said.
Beyond transportation, SLPHA’s contribution played a significant role in enhancing Sierra Leone’s image before the international community. Each safe crossing, timely departure, and welcoming interaction with visiting leaders and delegates reflected the country’s growing capacity to host and support major international events with efficiency, professionalism, and hospitality.
As the 2026 ECOWAS Mid-Year Summit concludes, SLPHA celebrates a successful operation that not only strengthened connectivity between Freetown and Lungi but also reinforced Sierra Leone’s position as a reliable regional partner. The operation further demonstrated the vital role of maritime transport in advancing national development, regional integration, and economic growth.