By Dr. Tony Morgan
Sierra Leone’s aviation and tourism sectors are set to receive a significant boost as the country hosts the prestigious Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) conference from July 29th to 30th. This event marks a monumental achievement, largely credited to the tireless efforts and exceptional expertise of Madam Musayeroh Barrie, the Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA).
Madam Barrie, renowned for her extensive knowledge of Sierra Leone’s aviation environment, has been a key figure in the industry for over a decade. As the Country Director for Westminster Aviation Security Services (WASS), she played a pivotal role in ensuring the security and efficiency of operations at Freetown International Airport. Her close collaboration with state authorities during the 2019 ICAO Security Audit resulted in Sierra Leone achieving an impressive pass mark of 71%.
Sierra Leone’s selection as the host for the SAATM conference is a testament to Madam Barrie’s tenacity, diplomacy and profound understanding of international aviation. Her contributions have not only elevated the country’s aviation standards but also positioned Sierra Leone as a vital player on the global aviation stage.
The SAATM conference, launched by the African Union, aims to create a unified air transport market across Africa. This event presents a unique opportunity to advance air transport liberalization, fostering economic growth, connectivity and cooperation among African nations. The proposed resolution at the conference will focus on promoting bilateral agreements among participating states to enhance air transport liberalization, remove barriers, increase competition and provide better services to passengers.
This conference is a significant milestone in President Bio’s development plan, reflecting the concerted efforts of key Government stakeholders. The Ministry of Transport, the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation have all played crucial roles in ensuring the successful hosting of this event. Their combined efforts, along with the leadership from the Office of the President and the Vice President, have been instrumental in bringing this grand event to Freetown.
Hosting the SAATM conference is expected to boost Sierra Leone’s trade and tourism sectors, showcasing the country’s potential to a global audience. It highlights the Government’s commitment to enhancing the nation’s connectivity and economic prospects.
As the world turns its attention to Freetown, the SAATM conference symbolizes a new era of growth and collaboration for Sierra Leone and the entire African continent. With the foundation laid by Madam Barrie’s exceptional work, Sierra Leone is poised to lead the charge in transforming Africa’s air transport landscape.
