SL Ports a New Era of Economic Collaboration with the US
By SLPHA Media
US Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Bryan David Hunt, on Thursday, October 10, 2024visited the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA) as part of ongoing efforts to bolster international trade and economic collaboration between the US Embassy and SLPHA. This visit underscores the commitment to enhancing bilateral relations and promoting regional trade.
During the visit, SLPHA Director General Yankuba Askia Bio provided an overview of the Authority’s recent milestones. He proudly announced that SLPHA had earned $4 million from a $20 million dividend through its partnership with African Global Logistics, where it holds a 20% share. This financial achievement reflects the Authority’s strategic initiatives and robust partnerships aimed at enhancing operational efficiency.
Bio also reported significant improvements in operational metrics, including a dramatic reduction in cargo dwelling times—from several weeks to under 48 hours. This improvement is crucial for increasing the competitiveness of Sierra Leone’s ports, facilitating faster turnaround for shipping companies, and ultimately benefiting consumers.
The Director General highlighted ongoing infrastructural developments at the port, notably the NECTAR expansion berth project, which is currently 99% complete. This expansion is expected to enhance the port’s capacity and efficiency, allowing it to accommodate larger vessels and an increased volume of cargo.
Furthermore, Bio emphasized SLPHA’s expanding regional role, noting that the port has been receiving more cargo destined for neighboring countries, including Guinea and Liberia. The Authority has also garnered several awards for its improved cargo productivity, a testament to its commitment to excellence in port operations.
Despite these achievements, Bio acknowledged several challenges facing the port, including issues related to maritime piracy, the presence of squatters, and delays in container exits during late hours. He appealed to the US Embassy for assistance in improving staff training in port security management, emphasizing the need for enhanced capabilities to tackle these challenges effectively.
In response, Ambassador Hunt praised the progress made in both infrastructure and port operations. He expressed optimism about the port’s potential role in West Africa’s trade landscape and underscored the importance of continued collaboration. During the visit, he also discussed plans to implement a single window system aimed at streamlining operations and enhancing overall efficiency at the port.
This visit highlights the growing cooperation between the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority and the US Embassy. It reflects a shared vision of positioning Sierra Leone as a key player in regional trade and economic development.
Following the discussions, the visiting team and senior management of SLPHA conducted a tour of the port facilities. They visited key areas, including the ITS scanning facility, the FTL container terminal, and the newly constructed berth, showcasing the improvements made and the potential for future growth.
Ambassador Hunt’s visit marks a significant step towards strengthening trade relations and enhancing the operational capacity of the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority. As both parties work together to address challenges and capitalize on opportunities, Sierra Leone is poised to become a more prominent player in the West African trade network.
