By: Saidu Jalloh
The Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA) has disclosed that it contributed more than NLe120 million to the Consolidated Fund through concession fees and royalties.
The disclosure was made by SLPHA Finance Controller, Andrew Tamba Kpulum, during the ongoing FY2027 Budget Discussion, where he presented the Authority’s financial performance, operational achievements and strategic priorities.
Kpulum also revealed that the Government of Sierra Leone holds a 20 per cent share in the operations of Freetown Terminal Limited (FTL).
Presenting the Authority’s operational achievements and priorities for FY2027, Kpulum explained that the introduction of round-the-clock operations across key port services, including pilotage, is intended to ensure that vessels and port users receive uninterrupted services.
He noted that the extended operating hours require staff to provide services beyond conventional working periods, allowing vessels and other port users to be attended to without unnecessary delays.
According to Kpulum, the move is expected to improve cargo movement, facilitate trade and strengthen the Authority’s responsiveness to shipping companies, clearing agents and other stakeholders.
As part of efforts to improve the ease of doing business, Kpulum disclosed that the SLPHA has increased the cargo storage period from three to seven days, giving port users additional time to manage their consignments and complete clearance procedures.
He said the measure would ease logistical pressures and provide greater flexibility for importers and exporters while improving the efficiency of cargo handling.
On employment and human capital development, Kpulum disclosed that more than 300 young people have been recruited by the Authority.
He explained that the recruitment forms part of the SLPHA’s broader institutional development programme aimed at strengthening its workforce while creating employment opportunities for young people.
Kpulum further revealed that the Authority is pursuing professional capacity-building through institutions including the Regional Maritime University, the World Maritime University and the International Maritime Law Institute.
He said the training opportunities are intended to improve the technical expertise, professional competence and leadership capacity of staff, particularly in specialized maritime fields.
On institutional integrity and anti-corruption compliance, Kpulum reported that the Authority recorded an 87 per cent compliance level in 2025.
He attributed the achievement to ongoing efforts to strengthen internal controls, promote ethical conduct and improve compliance with established governance standards.
Kpulum further reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to complying with international maritime, occupational health and safety requirements.
He noted that port operations are governed by international treaties, conventions and maritime laws, making compliance essential to maintaining confidence among international shipping operators and other maritime stakeholders.
Kpulum also assured that the Authority remains committed to meeting its personnel and statutory obligations to government institutions, including the National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT) and the National Revenue Authority (NRA).
Security and technological modernization also featured prominently in the Authority’s operational reforms.
Kpulum disclosed that security patrols have been strengthened across the port, while surveillance cameras are being installed to enable continuous monitoring of port activities.
He said the enhanced surveillance system is expected to strengthen security coordination, improve operational oversight and support timely responses to incidents across the port.
On digital transformation, Kpulum explained that the Authority is advancing the development of an integrated digital port system designed to facilitate faster, more transparent and paperless documentation.
He said the system is expected to incorporate relevant port data and streamline procedures involving shipping companies, clearing agents and other port users.
Kpulum added that the planned digital platform would provide users with clearer information on port charges and facilitate electronic payments, including through mobile phones.
He said the initiative is intended to reduce unnecessary paperwork and administrative delays while improving transparency and accountability in port transactions.
Kpulum revealed that the digitalization programme forms part of the Authority’s wider strategy to modernize port administration, reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks and improve the business environment for shipping operators and investors.
Beyond operational reforms, Kpulum said the SLPHA’s participation in regional and international maritime engagements has helped strengthen the Authority’s corporate image and expand bilateral and institutional relations.
He explained that the Authority’s engagement with international maritime institutions and professional networks has created opportunities for partnerships, technical cooperation and investment, while showcasing Sierra Leone’s port operations.
On legal matters, Kpulum disclosed that the Authority is currently defending three cases before the High Court.
He declined to comment on the substance of the ongoing litigation but maintained that the Authority’s assessment of potential financial exposure from the cases was negligible.
The operational reforms and FY2027 priorities form part of the SLPHA’s broader strategy to strengthen institutional performance, improve port services and enhance the Authority’s contribution to Sierra Leone’s trade and economic development.
With the expansion of 24-hour operations, youth recruitment, professional training, strengthened security and planned digitalization of port services, the Authority is seeking to modernize its operations and improve its capacity to respond to national, regional and international trade demands.