By Amin Kef (Ranger)
Sierra Leone’s civil aviation sector is witnessing an extraordinary transformation under the visionary leadership of Madam Musayeroh Barrie, the first female and youngest Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) and the youngest globally to head a civil aviation authority. Her appointment in 2023 by His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio fulfilled the President’s bold pledge to achieve 30% women’s representation in leadership and ushered in a new era of innovation, accountability and global recognition for Sierra Leone’s aviation industry.
A trailblazer and an inspiration to many, Madam Musayeroh Barrie holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, a Master’s in Business Administration and a Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership. Combining academic excellence with bold leadership, she has worked tirelessly to modernize and reposition Sierra Leone’s aviation sector. In just two years, she has implemented transformative reforms that have expanded flight connectivity, strengthened infrastructure, advanced regulatory transparency and aligned the SLCAA with international aviation best practices. Her passion for inclusivity and excellence has positioned Sierra Leone as one of Africa’s emerging success stories in air transport governance.
Madam Musayeroh Barrie’s influence extends beyond Sierra Leone’s borders. At the 42nd International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Assembly in Montreal, Canada, she was appointed Vice-Chairperson of the Administrative Commission; an achievement that elevated Sierra Leone’s visibility and credibility within global aviation governance. Her speech at the Assembly reaffirmed her commitment to building a modern, inclusive and safe aviation ecosystem, emphasizing that Sierra Leone’s airspace will operate under the highest international standards.
Under Madam Musayeroh Barrie’s dynamic leadership, the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority has made remarkable progress in advancing air connectivity and enhancing passenger experience. Strategic partnerships have been established with Overland Airways and Ethiopian Airlines and the revival of Air Sierra Leone is progressing steadily. A historic milestone was achieved on April 27, 2025, Sierra Leone’s Independence Day, with the launch of the direct flight route between Freetown and London Gatwick. This direct link to the United Kingdom symbolizes Sierra Leone’s renewed global connection and national pride. Despite global economic challenges, the Freetown International Airport recorded over 5,000 additional passengers in 2024, reflecting growing public confidence in the aviation sector.
Madam Musayeroh Barrie’s administration also successfully coordinated two consecutive Hajj operations, ensuring that Sierra Leonean pilgrims traveled safely and comfortably in accordance with international standards. The Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority further demonstrated its regulatory strength by publishing a detailed public notice outlining the Air Operator Certificate (AOC) process. The Authority is now on the verge of issuing Sierra Leone’s first-ever AOC to Air Sierra Leone, which has reached phase three of certification; a clear indication of regulatory maturity and transparency under her leadership.
In pursuit of international excellence, Madam Musayeroh Barrie oversaw the signing of a landmark Management Services Agreement between the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). This partnership introduced structured training, technical cooperation and performance-based management.
Two years of bold reforms have transformed Sierra Leone’s aviation industry from aspiration to achievement. Under the steadfast leadership of Madam Musayeroh Barrie, the SLCAA continues to soar with renewed confidence, competence and credibility; proving that with vision and determination, the sky is no longer the limit but the beginning of endless possibilities.
