By: Precious Miracle Kargbo
Following a strategic visit to the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbour Authority (SLPHA), Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh has praised the institution’s pivotal role in driving the nation’s economic transformation.
His visit highlighted the significant progress made at the port, positioning it as a critical gateway for trade, investment, and national development.
Dr. Sengeh pointed to a remarkable 158% increase in container traffic between 2023 and 2024, describing it as a sign of robust economic activity and growing investor confidence. “This growth reflects not only efficient management but also the expanding strength of Sierra Leone’s economy,” he said.
He further noted a 37% rise in export containers, including key commodities such as processed timber, oil, coffee, cocoa, and minerals. This increase is vital for improving foreign exchange stability and supporting the national currency. “Our trade figures are a clear signal of a resilient economy poised for further growth,” Dr. Sengeh added.
Port security was also a major focus of the Chief Minister’s remarks. With only a minimal number of containers intercepted for drugs or contraband out of an annual throughput of 135,000, the SLPHA has demonstrated its commitment to maintaining a safe and trustworthy trading environment. “Such security is crucial for building confidence in our trade systems,” he emphasized.
Dr. Sengeh also commended the inclusive and innovative leadership at SLPHA. With 36% gender representation at the management level and a youthful, dynamic team, the authority reflects the government’s ongoing transformation of the public sector.
On the financial front, the SLPHA has contributed approximately $11 million in concession fees to the Government of Sierra Leone over the past two years, underlining the strength of its public-private partnership model and its impact on national revenue generation.
Despite challenges such as a 60% port occupancy rate and increased allowable days for demurrage, the SLPHA has earned recognition as one of the best-performing ports in West Africa. During the Chief Minister’s visit, all eight berths were fully occupied, with additional vessels waiting to dock evidence of the port’s growing strategic importance.
Looking ahead, Dr. Sengeh expressed optimism about the planned digitization of port services, including the introduction of a single-window system to streamline operations and improve service delivery.
“Together, we are delivering on our commitments to the people of Sierra Leone,” he concluded, reaffirming the government’s dedication to transparency, efficiency, and sustainable economic growth through strategic institutional support.