Port Modernization Is Driving Sierra Leone’s Economic Future,” – SLPHA’s Company Secretary Tells FBC Students

The Company Secretary of the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA), Martin Maada George Esq, informed students of Fourah Bay College that the Port of Freetown is undergoing modernization initiatives aimed at improving efficiency, enhancing trade facilitation, and positioning Sierra Leone as a competitive maritime hub in the sub-region and beyond.

The Company Secretary was serving as Keynote speaker at the Fourah Bay College Inter-Departmental Debate, Essay writing, and Public Speaking Championship, organized by the Sierra Leone Debating Council, FBC Chapter. The academic competition was sponsored by the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility, thereby investing in the knowledge and future of Sierra Leone.

Addressing students and faculty members, Martin Maada George Esq. highlighted remarkable transformations taking place within SLPHA and the port, as part of the government’s broader vision for national development and economic transformation.

Speaking on the Port of Freetown’s security, he outlined measures being implemented to strengthen port safety and security, including enhanced surveillance systems and improved collaboration among security agencies. He statistically noted the successful interception and seizure of illegal drugs and other prohibited items, which has demonstrated the port’s growing capacity to detect, intercept, and prevent illicit activities in Sierra Leone, thereby protecting the future of young people. “These detections, interceptions and seizures do not demonstrate weakness. Rather, they demonstrate the Port of Freetown’s vigilance and commitment towards the fight against maritime crimes,” George stated.

While outlining the various port stakeholders and their respective roles, SLPHA’s Company Secretary further explained that port operations at the Port of Freetown is multi-agency approach, stressing the importance of cooperation among government agencies, concessionaires, shipping lines, terminal operators, freight forwarders, customs authorities, and security institutions.

He also highlighted the significant contributions of the port sector to Sierra Leone’s economy through revenue generation, employment creation, and support for international trade. George informed that in three consecutive years, the SLPHA has paid a total of $19 million as dividends to the Government of Sierra Leone,” as well as the revenue generated by the Customs and Excise Department of the National Revenue Authority at the Port.

“These developments are helping to facilitate trade, promoting investment, and positioning Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority as a catalyst for national development and economic transformation,” he stated.

Martin Maada George Esq concluded that SLPHA is committed to supporting such initiatives to build on youth capacity in the country.