DG Yankuba Askia Bio Enhances Wages and Working Conditions for Port Laborers Signaling a New Era at SL Ports

In a decisive move that underscores his commitment to the welfare of workers, the proactive and results-oriented Director General of the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA), Yankuba Askia Bio, has significantly improved wages and working conditions for labor workers at the ports. This development follows a recent work stoppage at the Quay, where laborers took a stand against what they described as substandard working conditions.

The labor unrest began as a response to long-standing grievances among port workers, who had grown increasingly frustrated with low wages, inadequate benefits, and poor working conditions. The situation reached a tipping point when laborers at the Quay halted operations, effectively bringing the port to a standstill. This action highlighted the urgent need for intervention and drew attention to the critical role that port laborers play in the country’s economy.

Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Director General Yankuba Askia Bio acted swiftly to address the workers’ concerns. On August 11, 2024, he convened an emergency meeting that brought together all relevant stakeholders, including representatives from the labor companies, the Sierra Leone Dock Workers Union, and the laborers themselves. The meeting was a crucial step in resolving the industrial action and ensuring that the port could resume operations without further disruption.

During the emergency meeting, Director General Bio listened attentively to the grievances of the laborers and the perspectives of the labor companies. His leadership was instrumental in facilitating a productive dialogue between the parties, leading to a series of resolutions that would transform the working conditions at the Quay. The outcome of the meeting was a landmark agreement that included a significant increase in hourly wages, from Le.6 to Le.12, representing a 100% raise. This wage adjustment was accompanied by the introduction of key benefits, including medical, transport, and meal allowances, which were long overdue.

The decision to improve wages and introduce benefits marks a new chapter in the relationship between the port authorities and laborers. It signals a shift towards greater recognition of the value of human capital in the operations of the ports. Director General Bio emphasized that the well-being of workers is not just a matter of fairness, but a critical factor in the success of the ports. He urged labor company owners to take the concerns of their workers seriously, pointing out that a satisfied and motivated workforce is essential for the efficient functioning of the ports.

The impact of this intervention is expected to be far-reaching. By addressing the immediate concerns of the laborers, Director General Bio has not only restored order at the Quay but has also set a precedent for how labor issues should be handled in the future. His actions have been widely praised by both workers and labor company representatives, who see this as a turning point in labor relations at the ports.

The President of the Sierra Leone Dock Workers Union, Ferdinand Valentine, expressed his deep appreciation for Director General Bio’s timely and effective intervention. He noted that the Director General’s leadership had prevented what could have been a prolonged disruption with severe economic consequences. Laborers’ Chairman Salieu Turay also commended the Director General for his commitment to improving the lives of workers, highlighting that the wage increase and new benefits would have a tangible positive impact on the lives of many families.

Representatives from the labor companies also voiced their support for the agreement, acknowledging that fair compensation and improved working conditions are vital for maintaining a stable and productive workforce. They expressed their willingness to continue working with the SLPHA under the leadership of Director General Bio to ensure that the ports remain a cornerstone of Sierra Leone’s economy.

As the dust settles on this industrial action, the message is clear: under the leadership of Director General Yankuba Askia Bio, the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority is committed to fostering a work environment that values and uplifts its laborers. This recent intervention serves as a reminder of the importance of strong, compassionate leadership in addressing the challenges facing Sierra Leone’s key industries.

Moving forward, the SLPHA will continue to build on this momentum, working closely with all stakeholders to ensure that the ports remain a vital, dynamic, and equitable workplace. The successful resolution of this conflict sets a strong example for other sectors, highlighting the power of dialogue, fair negotiation, and the prioritization of workers’ welfare in driving national progress.