SL Reaffirms Aviation Leadership at ICAO Facilitation Panel in Doha

Sierra Leone’s Minister of Transport and Aviation, Alhaji Fanday Turay Esq., has reaffirmed the country’s steadfast commitment to the advancement of global aviation during his address at the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Facilitation Panel Conference (#FALC2025) held in Doha, Qatar.

Representing Sierra Leone on the international stage, Minister Turay shared the country’s recent milestones in aviation development, including the commissioning of a new international airport, strengthened national coordination mechanisms, and a growing list of international airline partners operating in the country.

“The future of aviation is now, and Sierra Leone is ready to lead with action and collaboration,” declared Minister Turay. “We should not be content with dialogue alone—let us commit to action. The skies we share demand bold vision, unwavering integrity, and collective resolve. The time for delay is over.”

Minister Turay emphasized that Sierra Leone’s progress is deeply aligned with ICAO’s global facilitation priorities, particularly in areas such as enhancing the passenger travel experience, improving border and security processes, and promoting seamless coordination between sectors.

“We are not just investing in infrastructure,” he noted. “We are investing in people, in systems, and in strategic partnerships that will ensure sustainability, security, and resilience in our aviation ecosystem.”

He called on fellow member states to shift from mere policy discussions to decisive actions that will reshape the future of global air travel, particularly in a post-pandemic world that demands innovation and responsiveness.

Sierra Leone’s participation in #FALC2025 reaffirms its proactive stance in shaping international aviation policy and elevating Africa’s role in driving global air transport development. Minister Turay’s address was a bold appeal for unity, visionary leadership, and practical solutions in addressing the dynamic challenges of modern aviation.

The ICAO Facilitation Panel Conference serves as a vital forum for member states to collaborate on streamlining travel processes, reducing procedural bottlenecks, and integrating sustainability into air travel systems worldwide.