The Director of Autospect has revealed to MPs that the Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority (SLRSA) suffered a revenue loss of NLe 5.1 million due to pricing issues

In a recent briefing to the Committee on Transportation and Aviation, Mr. Muhieddine Itani, Managing Director of Autospect, outlined significant revenue losses incurred by the Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority (SLRSA) due to pricing issues with vehicle-related products.

Itani revealed that in 2023, the sale of motorcycle (MC) plates at NLe 80 led to a direct revenue loss of over NLe 600,000 for SLRSA. Similarly, the sale of MC licenses at an average price of NLe 209 resulted in a revenue shortfall exceeding NLe 3 million. Additionally, the average sales price for MC fitness certificates was NLe 78, contributing to a revenue loss of over NLe 1.5 million. Overall, the total revenue loss for SLRSA amounted to NLe 5.1 million for the year.

Itani attributed these losses to outdated pricing, which, if adjusted earlier, could have increased SLRSA’s revenues to NLe 23.6 million, instead of the actual NLe 18.5 million realized. However, recent adjustments have begun to reverse these trends. The price for MC plates was increased to NLe 240, resulting in a revenue boost exceeding NLe 800,000. The new estimated revenue for MC plates in 2024 is over NLe 2.2 million, with MC license revenues projected to surpass NLe 12 million. Adjustments to MC fitness prices have also contributed to a revenue increase of over NLe 5.3 million, bringing the total estimated revenue for 2024 to over NLe 29 million.

Itani also highlighted that vehicle registrations in 2023 totaled 33,320, with motorcycles making up 65% of new registrations. However, compliance for renewals was significantly lower, prompting a need for stricter enforcement.

In an effort to enhance national security and revenue, Autospect plans to introduce pre-registration for motorbikes at the QE Port and borders. This process will require importers to present a Vehicle License Slip from the National Revenue Authority (NRA) to SLRSA for pre-registration before registration. Additionally, vehicle fitness will be implemented in two phases to improve road safety and public awareness.

The committee praised the presentation and the proactive measures proposed by Autospect. The meeting concluded with a tour of Autospect’s facilities and a group photo, reflecting the committee’s support for the new initiatives aimed at improving vehicle registration and road safety in Sierra Leone.