By Hassan Osman Kargbo
Under the astute leadership of Director General Yankuba Askia Bio, the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbour Authority (SLPHA) has marked a transformative period, culminating in 2024 as the most productive year in the port’s history since its establishment in 1964. As the first elected Director General of SLPHA to serve on the Freetown Terminal Board in Puteaux, France, Bio’s tenure has been characterized by a relentless focus on reform, growth, and the enhancement of the country’s critical infrastructure, aiming to stimulate both international trade and national economic development.
The achievements under Bio’s leadership reflect a clear commitment to improving port operations and positioning the port as a vital engine for the country’s economy. His leadership has been instrumental in navigating challenges and fostering collaborations that contribute to the sustainable growth of Sierra Leone’s maritime sector.
“I am incredibly proud to have contributed to such a productive year for the Port,” Bio said after attending the Freetown Terminal Board meeting in France. “2024 stands as a testament to our commitment to reform, growth, and serving the public interest by enhancing port services and efficiency.”
One of the cornerstones of Bio’s leadership has been his ability to clearly define SLPHA’s mission and vision. Under his guidance, SLPHA’s strategic objectives are now more focused than ever on improving safety, security, and environmental responsibility. The port’s role is central not only to the economy of Sierra Leone but also to regional trade in West Africa. Bio has ensured that SLPHA operates in alignment with international standards, enhancing its capability to facilitate international trade while protecting the public interest.
Bio’s reforms extend beyond day-to-day operations and encompass long-term sustainability. He has actively pushed for investments into the port’s infrastructure, workforce, and technology, aiming to improve the overall efficiency and productivity of the port. The 359 dedicated professionals working under his leadership are an essential part of this vision, all committed to delivering top-tier services and ensuring the port meets future challenges.
During his tenure, Bio has overseen a series of operational and infrastructural upgrades, making SLPHA more competitive in the global market. The port’s transformation has been significantly influenced by ongoing concessions with major players such as Freetown Terminal Ltd., Nectar SL Bulk Terminal Ltd, and Slipway Services to Holland Shipyard, partnerships that have generated increased revenue, improved services, and enhanced the port’s capacity to handle the growing demands of international trade.
While focusing on these partnerships, Bio’s leadership also placed a strong emphasis on security and productivity. Recognizing that port operations are the lifeblood of Sierra Leone’s economy, he spearheaded discussions aimed at strengthening port security and improving operational efficiency, a comprehensive approach designed not only to secure the port but also to optimize its productivity, ensuring it remains an effective gateway for trade.
Bio’s commitment to fostering effective service delivery is also reflected in his relentless drive to create a better working environment for the team at SLPHA. “Our dedicated team of professionals is central to the success of our efforts,” Bio emphasized. “We have invested in training and capacity-building to ensure our workforce remains at the cutting edge of port operations, and they are key to delivering the level of service our country deserves.”
Looking forward, Bio is confident that the work laid out in 2024 lays a strong foundation for the port’s future growth. He sees ongoing infrastructure development, security enhancements, and the advancement of technology as critical elements to sustaining long-term growth. Bio also expressed his optimism about the future of Sierra Leone’s maritime sector, saying, “We are excited about the direction we are heading in, and I am certain that with our continued efforts, we will see even greater success in the coming years.”
As the country continues to grow economically, the leadership of Director General Yankuba Askia Bio stands as an example of effective governance and strategic vision. His emphasis on teamwork, security, infrastructure, and modernization ensures that the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbour Authority will remain a crucial contributor to national development, driving forward the country’s global trade ambitions while fostering economic growth and job creation.
With Bio at the helm, SLPHA’s future looks brighter than ever, and his leadership is a model for others to follow in the pursuit of excellence.
