By Hassan Osman Kargbo
The Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority Technical Department medical staff on Monday 5 May 2026 observed International Hygiene Day at the Freetown port with a strong focus on promoting hand washing and sanitation practices among workers and visitors. The exercise involved the systematic washing and sanitizing of hands for staff members and visitors entering the port facility as part of efforts to reduce the risk of infections and promote a safe and healthy working environment. Medical personnel stationed at the port took turns demonstrating proper hand hygiene techniques while engaging with individuals on the importance of regular hand washing in preventing communicable diseases. The initiative also highlighted the vital role of nurses and other health professionals in safeguarding public health within operational environments such as the port, where large numbers of people interact daily. Officials from the Technical Department reaffirmed their commitment to continuous awareness creation, preventive care, and improved service delivery aimed at maintaining high standards of hygiene across all port activities. They emphasized that International Hygiene Day serves as an important reminder for both staff and visitors to observe strict hygiene practices that contribute to a healthier and safer port community in Freetown. The SLPHA said the exercise forms part of its broader commitment to staff welfare, occupational safety, and the maintenance of international public health standards within the maritime environment. According to the medical team, regular hygiene campaigns are essential in preventing outbreaks of infectious diseases, especially in busy public service areas such as ports where constant human movement increases health risks. They further called on all port users to take personal responsibility by practicing proper hand washing, using sanitizers where necessary, and supporting ongoing health awareness initiatives at the port. The event concluded with continued demonstrations and distribution of hygiene messages aimed at reinforcing safe habits among staff, visitors, and other stakeholders within the Freetown port community. Authorities say the programme will continue regularly across all port facilities in Freetown.
