By Amin Kef (Ranger)
The Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), led by its Director General, Madam Musayeroh Barrie, the youngest serving Civil Aviation Director General in the world, proudly represented Sierra Leone at the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Next Generation of Aviation Professionals (NGAP) Global Summit 2025, held in Durban, South Africa.
The two-day summit, themed: “The Flight Plan for Future Aviation Talent: Innovate, Educate, Inspire – Building the Workforce for the Skies Ahead”, brought together global aviation leaders, policymakers, educators and industry experts to tackle the urgent need for a skilled, inclusive and future-ready aviation workforce.
During a high-level panel on: “The Future of Work in Aviation: Adapting to Industry Transformation”, Madam Musayeroh Barrie emphasized the importance of attracting and empowering young people and women in the civil aviation sector. She urged African aviation bodies to move beyond rhetoric on empowerment and take concrete action, describing it as a “necessary cultural shift” for long-term sector growth.
She stressed the need for continuous learning, adaptability and the creation of work environments that encourage innovation among young professionals. Madam Musayeroh Barrie also called for regulatory and structural reforms to integrate advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, while ensuring that digital solutions are tailored to communities’ literacy levels.
Highlighting Sierra Leone’s recent achievements, the SLCAA Director General cited the successful launch of the national carrier, Air Sierra Leone, which has boosted public interest and national pride. She also reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to expanding aviation training opportunities, promoting gender diversity and aligning national aviation strategies with ICAO’s NGAP framework.
“As the youngest Civil Aviation Director General in the world, I carry both the responsibility and the privilege of ensuring Sierra Leone’s aviation story is one of progress, inclusion and sustainability,” she told delegates. “The future of work in aviation is about people and Sierra Leone is committed to preparing our people for that future.”
Sierra Leone’s active participation in the ICAO NGAP Global Summit 2025 underscores its determination to play a leading role in shaping the future of African aviation, with a focus on safety, connectivity and growth.
