The Minister of Transport and Aviation Rtd. Colonel Alhaji Fanday Turay, has spoken on his ambitious strategy to enhance performance across all transport sectors land, sea, and air.

He made this disclosure during the Ministry of Information and Civic Education press conference held at the Ministry of Defence.

He announced ongoing negotiations with two international airlines to establish operations in Sierra Leone, simaling a new era for the country’s aviation landscape.

Minister Turay also lauded four airport employees who displayed integrity by reporting drug traffickers, reinforcing the government’s stance against corruption.

Musayeroh Barrie, the Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), presented a robust plan to remove the country from the aviation blacklist, a status it has held since 2008.

SLCAA is on track with an eight-month roadmap, which includes processing applications for Air Operating Certificates for the first time in over a decade. Barrie underscored efforts to improve regional connectivity, noting that flight frequencies have increased significantly and discussions are underway to further expand service.

Yankuba Askia Bio, Director General of the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbour Authority (SLPHA), reported impressive growth in port activities.

Vessel traffic rose from 426 to 435, and imports surged by 9%, reflecting a positive economic trend. Bio also announced a digital transformation initiative funded by €64,000, aimed at modernizing port operations.

New partnerships are set to enhance infrastructure, including the development of a Dry Port and a transshipment facility.

Isaac Ken-Green, Acting Director General of the Sierra Leone Public Transport Authority, shared exciting developments in public transport. The government has procured Waka Fine Buses, which are being loaned to the Metro Company at favorable terms, enhancing the informal transport sector’s capabilities. The newly established Public Transport Authority is now regulating operations, serving over half a million passengers monthly.

Smart K. Senesie, Executive Director of the Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority, introduced forthcoming legislation targeting the prevalence of old vehicles and substandard parts on the roads. The establishment of two highway management centers will improve emergency response, while the availability of driving licenses is set to streamline vehicle registration and road safety measures.

This comprehensive update from the government illustrates a dynamic approach to transforming Sierra Leone’s transport and aviation sectors, ensuring enhanced safety, efficiency, and accessibility for all citizens.