By Amin Kef (Ranger)
Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), Madam Musayeroh Barrie, has emerged as a key voice at the ongoing ICAO Security Week 2024, which began on Monday, December 9, 2024 in Muscat, Oman. The event, organized by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), in collaboration with the Civil Aviation Authority of Oman, celebrates 50 years of Annex 17 on Aviation Security under the theme: “Sustainable Future of Aviation Through Security.”
Madam Musayeroh Barrie, invited as a distinguished panelist, has emphasized the need for sustainable aviation security, focusing on collaboration, innovation and leadership to tackle emerging challenges in the sector.
In her remarks, she highlighted the complexities of aviation security, describing it as fragile yet essential. She also underscored that sustainable security requires consistent risk assessment and strong partnerships between state security entities and aviation authorities.
“Aviation security is primarily about preventing intentional harmful actions, which makes it difficult to predict and counter. To succeed, we must strengthen collaboration, invest in behavioral detection techniques and embrace continuous training,” she noted.
The Director General stressed that aviation security is not solely about technology but also relies heavily on the human element. “While automation and technology are critical, the human factor remains irreplaceable. We need well-trained personnel who are motivated and equipped to handle evolving threats,” she explained.
Madam Musayeroh Barrie has also been vocal about the role of leadership in aviation security. She urged global leaders to set an example by complying with stringent security screenings, emphasizing that even minor oversights could have catastrophic consequences.
“Leaders must demonstrate their commitment by adhering to the same security measures as everyone else. Their actions set the tone for the effectiveness of aviation security protocols,” she said.
Additionally, Madam Musayeroh Barrie called for public awareness campaigns to foster a culture of security consciousness. She believes that security is a shared responsibility that requires active participation from all stakeholders, including passengers.
As a staunch advocate of international compliance, she highlighted the importance of adhering to ICAO’s Annex 17 standards, which set the baseline for aviation security globally. She pointed out that Sierra Leone, like all nations, must prioritize implementing these measures to ensure safe and secure air travel.
“ICAO provides guidance, but it is the responsibility of individual states to implement these standards effectively. No country can afford to be left behind in this global effort,” she remarked.
She also emphasized the interconnectedness of the global aviation industry. “Flights originating in Sierra Leone could easily end up in the UK or the US, which underscores the need for consistency and trust in our security systems,” she explained.
In addressing the need for adaptability, she advocated for unpredictable security operations to prevent vulnerabilities from being exploited. She also called for frequent vulnerability assessments involving all stakeholders to address risks comprehensively.
“Security must evolve with the threats we face. The element of unpredictability is crucial to staying ahead of potential risks,” she added.
As ICAO Security Week 2024 progresses, Madam Musayeroh Barrie’s insights and leadership reaffirm Sierra Leone’s commitment to advancing global aviation security. Her call for collaboration, innovation and adherence to international standards has resonated with aviation leaders worldwide.
“Security is not a choice; it is an obligation to protect lives, ensure public confidence and maintain the integrity of the global aviation network,” Madam Musayeroh Barrie concluded.
