By: Saidu Jalloh
During the ongoing FY2026 budget discussions, the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA) reported a notable increase in its contribution to the Consolidated Fund. The Authority’s contribution rose from Le 100 million in the 2025 fiscal year to Le 120 million in 2026.
Speaking at the ceremony, Malcom Leigh, Deputy Director of Finance at SLPHA, shared that the Authority remains committed to contributing over Le 120 million annually through concession fees and royalties. He also revealed that the government holds a 20% stake in the operations of Freetown Terminal Limited (FTL).
Leigh emphasized the critical role of SLPHA in Sierra Leone’s economy, stating that the Authority oversees approximately 90% of cargo movements in and out of the country’s ports and harbours. He described SLPHA as the “backbone of the national economy,” making a substantial contribution to the GDP by facilitating trade.
Outlining the Authority’s objectives, Leigh explained that SLPHA’s primary goal is to promote sustainable economic growth through the enhancement of port services, safety, and security. The Authority also aims to improve the image of Sierra Leone’s ports to regional and international standards, increase government revenue, eliminate inefficiencies in port management, improve service delivery, develop port infrastructure, and expand capacity at Port Nitti and other facilities.
Regarding achievements, Leigh highlighted several milestones since the establishment of SLPHA in 1964. These include the repeal of the outdated Ports Act of 1964 and its replacement with the progressive Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority Act of 2023. Other significant accomplishments include the approval of the SLPHA tariff regulation in March 2025, the construction of a new eastward terminal by NSBT, Board approval and Ministry of Finance concurrence for a new administrative building, the development of a new port security plan in compliance with the International Ship and Port Security (ISPS) Code, and receiving an unqualified audit opinion for its 2024 financial statements.
Leigh also addressed past litigation issues, stating that the case involving Sahr Joseph and 37 others was amicably resolved in 2023, with the plaintiffs voluntarily agreeing to accept 50% of their end-of-service benefits as full and final payment. Regarding another case filed by Suliaman Bangura and others, who were claiming benefits totaling Le 3,776,028, Leigh clarified that SLPHA was not a substantive defendant in the case, as the plaintiffs were neither employed nor hired by the Authority.
Despite these achievements, Leigh acknowledged the challenges SLPHA continues to face. These include the urgent need for jetty and berth rehabilitation, dredging, installation of navigational signals such as buoys and lights, procurement of tugboats and pilot/service boats for towage services, and the construction of a new administrative building. He also raised concerns about difficulties in accessing royalty fees from port operators.
Leigh warned of potential threats to port operations, including the proximity of heavy machinery and cargo handling operations, which increase accident risks; exposure to hazardous materials such as clinker, cement, and fuel fumes, which endanger staff health; structural damage to the berth in front of the administrative building caused by vessel impacts; and the presence of squatters within the port perimeter.
On revenue streams, Leigh explained that SLPHA’s main sources of income include marine services, stevedore services (liquid bulk), container terminal throughput fees, break-bulk throughput fees, marine slipway fees, and other revenue.
Presenting a summary of the Authority’s budget estimates, Leigh detailed allocations for various sectors Vehicles: Le 15,710, Vessels and Jetties Le 3,785, Furniture: Le 1,545, Computer Hardware/Software: Le 2,006, Other Equipment: Le 2,647, Plant and Machinery: Le 856 and Buildings Le 97,200.
In conclusion, Leigh reaffirmed SLPHA’s commitment to strengthening Sierra Leone’s maritime industry. He emphasized that the Authority will continue to play a central role in driving economic growth through efficient port management, revenue generation, and strategic reforms that align with international best practices.