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The new Senior Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Transport and Aviation, Edward Kwame Yankson, has committed to adherence to the civil service code of conduct and encouraged dedication to the Ministry’s goals.
Yankson made this commitment during an official handing-over and welcoming ceremony held at the Ministry’s headquarters in Freetown.
He also expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and reflected on his prior connections with staff and sector leaders. “I see many familiar faces, and I’m happy to be among colleagues once again. Let’s keep our focus. Let’s build on what we have achieved. And let us continue to serve the people with integrity and purpose.”
The Deputy Minister of Transport and Aviation, Rex Bhonapha who doubles as the chairman emphasized the importance of institutional continuity and collaboration. He expressed thanks and appreciation to the outgoing Permanent Secretary for his service towards the transformation of the country’s transport sector.
In his opening remarks, Hon. Minister of Transport and Aviation, Ambassador Col. (Rtd.) Alhaji Fanday Turay, Esq., thanked the outgoing Permanent Secretary for his tireless and unweaving commitment in striving towards a resilient and sustainable transport sector. He described the former PS as an easy going and kindhearted leader, adding that he carries himself with a calm and composed demeanor.
He welcomed the new Permanent Secretary and spoke candidly about the Ministry’s journey its achievements, ongoing challenges, and the critical role of strong leadership in navigating both.
“This Ministry is dynamic, fast-paced, and central to national development,” the Minister said. “I urge you to work closely with our agency heads. Listen to their advice, especially when decisions are difficult. They are experienced, and together, we’ve achieved a lot.”
He commended the heads of agencies for their unwavering commitment and praised the Ministry staff, describing them as “the engine of the Ministry”. He encouraged the new PS to treat staff as colleagues, adding:
“They are dedicated, loyal, and deserve support. With cooperation and teamwork, success is inevitable.”
The occasion brought together senior ministry officials, heads of agencies, staff members, and representatives from across the transport sector to bid farewell to the outgoing Permanent Secretary and welcome his successor.
Representatives from different transport sectors applauds the outgone Permanent Secretary and called on Yankson to uphold the ministry’s standard.
In closing the ceremony, the Hon. Minister reminded all present that “first impressions matter”, encouraging the staff to take full advantage of the leadership transition to enhance teamwork and excellence.
