Banking Hours Extended to Support 24/7 Port Operations

Banking Hours Extended to Support 24/7 Port Operations

In a coordinated effort to decongest the nation's ports and streamline trade, the Government of Sierra Leone has embarked on a major efficiency drive, combining around-the-clock port operations with extended banking services.

The Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA) commenced 24/7 operations a year ago at the Queen Elizabeth II Quay to reduce cargo clearance times and easing the flow of goods through the port.

To ensure that the logistical improvements are matched by financial accessibility, the Bank of Sierra Leone has authorized extended operating hours for commercial banks in the Queen Elizabeth II Quay and Cline Town areas. 

Effective immediately, these branches will remain open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. daily, providing businesses, port users, and stakeholders with the necessary convenience to manage financial transactions in alignment with the new port schedule.

This initiative seeks to eliminate delays and foster a more efficient economic environment. 

By synchronizing banking and port services, officials expect a tangible improvement in throughput and a boost to national revenue collection.

The move is being hailed as a practical step toward the broader national objective of service delivery and economic development, offering a more responsive environment for the vital trade sector.