The Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority (SLRSA) has officially launched a Mobile Licensing Vehicle (MLV) aimed at improving the accessibility and efficiency of motor vehicle licensing services across the country.

The commissioning event took place at the Youyi Building and was led by the Deputy Minister of Transport and Aviation, Mr. Rex Bhonafa.

During the launch, Deputy Executive Director of the SLRSA, Mr. Josie Abraham Scott Manga, affirmed the importance of the MLV, stating, “The MLV was developed to improve accessibility, especially for citizens in remote or underserved areas who often face challenges with license renewals and new registrations.” He reiterates the Authority’s commitment to service, innovation, and integrity.

Executive Director of the SLRSA, Mr. James Baggie Bio, noted that the initiative was a direct response to feedback from transport stakeholders regarding the difficulties encountered in vehicle licensing.

“The mobile station will move from point to point to ensure our services are more accessible,” he explained, and further announced the opening of new licensing stations in Jui and Milton Margai, which will serve the Jui and Goderich communities, respectively.

Bio also mentioned plans for a second Mobile Licensing Vehicle focused on issuing driver’s licenses, reinforcing the Authority’s goal of decentralizing licensing operations throughout Sierra Leone.

In his keynote address, Deputy Minister Bhonafa urged transport stakeholders to fully utilize the innovative service. He reiterated President Bio’s commitment to enhancing service delivery and informed attendees that the Ministry, in collaboration with the SLRSA, had ratified the African Road Safety Charter, a move expected to improve road safety standards nationwide.

Transport stakeholders expressed their support for the initiative. Mr. Momodu Koroma, Vice President of the drivers’ union, praised the SLRSA’s inclusive approach and commended the Executive Director for engaging stakeholders in key decisions. He called for ongoing collaboration to enhance road safety in Sierra Leone.

Similar commitments were shared by the President of the Keke Riders’ Union and a representative from the bike riders’ union, both of whom welcomed the MLV as a major advancement in service delivery within the transport sector.