Sierra Leonean lawmakers have urged the government to support the proposed Kent Harbour and Port Project, saying additional port capacity is needed to ease congestion and strengthen trade and revenue generation.

The appeal came during Parliament’s consideration and approval of presidential nominees, including newly approved Finance Minister Karefa A.F. Kargbo, as lawmakers outlined economic priorities they want the new minister to address.

The Kent Harbour project is being developed by the Gento Group of Companies. Lawmakers said government support could help advance the project while creating opportunities for local businesses and workers.

Chairman of Parliament’s Finance Committee, Hon. Kekura Vandi, questioned the continued delay in establishing another port when the existing quay is facing congestion.

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“What are we waiting for in establishing another port?” Hon. Kekura Vandi asked.

Vandi encouraged lawmakers to visit Kent to assess the progress of the project and urged the government to meet its obligations under the relevant agreement.

Opposition Chief Whip and All People’s Congress Member of Parliament Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara, popularly known as AKK, also called for the government to prioritise the project.

Kamara said congestion at the existing quay was creating difficulties for businesses involved in importing and exporting goods.

“The quay is tight and overcrowded. There is a need to have another port to boost the country’s economy,” Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara stated.

He said expanding port infrastructure could support trade, attract investment and increase domestic revenue. Kamara also called for decisive government intervention, including consideration of financial assistance for the project.

“It is important that we boost the Kent project because the need is there,” he added.

Kamara further argued that the project could strengthen local participation in the economy by creating opportunities in construction, transportation, logistics, shipping and trade.

“We should empower our own to have another port and the Kent Harbour project will fill the vacuum,” he maintained.

Hon. Daniel Koroma backed the call, describing the proposed facility as a locally driven investment that should receive government support.

“The Kent Harbour project is our local baby, and it should be supported by the Government through the Finance Minister,” Hon. Daniel Koroma said.

Hon. Aaron Aruna Koroma urged the new Finance Minister to consider the project as part of efforts to broaden Sierra Leone’s revenue base.

Referring to neighbouring Guinea, which he said has multiple ports, Aaron Koroma argued that Sierra Leone should make greater use of its maritime potential to expand trade and attract investment.

Opposition Leader Hon. Abdul Kargbo also recognised the need for a port at Kent and urged the Finance Minister to give the project serious consideration.

Supporters of the project say a second port could complement existing infrastructure, improve the movement of imports and exports, reduce pressure on the current quay and create economic opportunities in Kent and surrounding communities.

Any government financing, however, would need to take into account the project’s viability, financing arrangements, repayment obligations and potential long-term returns to the country.

The parliamentary debate has placed the proposed Kent Harbour and Port Project among the economic priorities being presented to the new Finance Minister as the government considers options for expanding Sierra Leone’s maritime and revenue-generating capacity.