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Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), Madam Musayeroh Barrie, has received continental recognition for her leadership and contribution to the advancement of civil aviation during the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Global Aviation Gender Summit 2026 held in Luanda, Angola, from 21 to 23 July.
Barrie was recognised among Africa’s leading women in aviation for her role in strengthening the sector in Sierra Leone and supporting the growth of civil aviation across the continent. The recognition places her among a select group of women heading technical civil aviation institutions in Africa.
Reacting to the recognition, Barrie described the honour as a reflection of the commitment and resilience demonstrated by women who continue to make meaningful contributions to the aviation industry.
“I am honoured to be recognised among African women who are working to shape the future of the continent’s aviation industry. This recognition reflects the dedication, resilience and commitment of women who continue to break barriers and advance the aviation sector across Africa. I remain committed to supporting the growth and transformation of Africa’s aviation industry while encouraging more women to pursue leadership and excellence in the field,” she said.
The 2026 ICAO Global Aviation Gender Summit was held under the theme, “Advancing Aviation Through the Empowerment of Women,” and focused on strengthening efforts to promote gender equality across the global aviation industry through practical and measurable actions.
The summit brought together government officials, aviation regulators, industry executives, international organisations and development partners to review progress in increasing women’s participation in aviation and to identify strategies for addressing existing gender disparities.
Participants discussed policies aimed at expanding leadership opportunities for women, strengthening workforce development, enhancing technical training and promoting innovation across the aviation sector. Deliberations also highlighted the importance of evidence-based decision-making and stronger partnerships in advancing gender inclusion.
The summit further recognised the growing presence of women leading major aviation institutions across Africa, including the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) and several national Civil Aviation Authorities, among them Sierra Leone.
Delegates also called for sustained efforts to improve workplace safety, promote equal pay, enhance work-life balance and remove barriers limiting women’s advancement in the aviation industry, noting that diversity and inclusion remain essential to the sector’s long-term growth.
Barrie’s recognition represents a significant achievement for Sierra Leone’s aviation sector and underscores the country’s increasing profile in international aviation leadership while reflecting the SLCAA’s commitment to professionalism, innovation and inclusive development.
