By Amin Kef (Ranger)
The Vice President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, has reaffirmed the Government’s unwavering commitment to port modernization and economic growth during a courtesy visit to the Port of Freetown on Wednesday March 12, 2025. He was warmly received by the Director General of the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA), Yankuba Askia Bio, along with senior Management officials.
During the visit, the Vice President embarked on a comprehensive tour of the port facilities, where he witnessed firsthand the ongoing infrastructure developments and operational improvements aimed at enhancing efficiency, security and trade facilitation. The Director General provided an insightful overview of the Authority’s strategic initiatives, emphasizing the importance of modernizing port operations to align with global best practices.
One of the key highlights of the tour was the Vice President’s inspection of the port’s transit point, where he observed the movement of goods through the facility.
The visit underscored the Government’s dedication to transforming Sierra Leone into a leading maritime hub in the region, ensuring that the country’s ports remain competitive and attractive to international investors.
Addressing stakeholders, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, commended the leadership of the SLPHA for their relentless efforts in modernizing port operations and ensuring the smooth facilitation of trade. He reassured them of the Government’s full support in strengthening the sector and fostering an environment that promotes economic expansion and job creation.
“The Government of President Julius Maada Bio is committed to ensuring that our ports remain a vital driver of economic growth and international trade. We recognize the importance of an efficient port system in boosting trade, improving revenue generation and positioning Sierra Leone as a key player in regional and global commerce,” Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh stated.
The Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority, established by Act No. 29 of 2023, has been instrumental in managing and coordinating maritime activities within Freetown’s ports and harbours, as well as the River Ports of Nitty and Pepel. The new legislation empowers the Authority to implement strategic initiatives that facilitate efficient maritime operations crucial for national economic development and trade connectivity.
As part of efforts to enhance efficiency and align with international standards, the Government, through the National Commission for Privatization, transitioned the Management of the port from a service port model to a landlord port model. This reform has paved the way for the privatization of core port activities, allowing private operators to bring in expertise, investment and advanced technological solutions.
The Port of Freetown operates in collaboration with key stakeholders, including:
- Freetown Terminal Limited – Concessionaire of the container terminal
- Nectar Sierra Leone Bulk Terminal Limited – Concessionaire of the non-containerized cargo terminal
These partnerships have significantly contributed to the improvement of cargo handling, turnaround time and overall port performance, positioning Sierra Leone as a growing hub for maritime trade in West Africa.
Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh’s visit to the Port of Freetown signals a renewed Government focus on infrastructure development and economic transformation. With continuous investments and strategic reforms, the port is set to become a major catalyst for trade, job creation and national prosperity.
