UK Delegation Explores Sierra Leone Port Investments
The British High Commission in Freetown, in collaboration with Nectar Sierra Leone Bulk Terminal (NSBT), engaged the leadership of the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA) on Thursday to explore major investment opportunities, project support, and strategic collaboration aimed at boosting port operations and infrastructure development.
The high-level meeting brought together key representatives, including Deputy High Commissioner Mehdi Hussain, Economic Adviser Tyler Reddin, NSBT General Manager Siamba Kamara, and SLPHA Director General Yankuba Askia Bio.
Discussions focused heavily on key operational challenges and future growth prospects. Following a presentation by SLPHA Director of Research and Planning Abu Bakarr Kamara, Esq., Deputy High Commissioner Hussain sought clarity regarding squatter settlements and land encroachment.
SLPHA leadership confirmed that government efforts are underway to resolve unauthorised occupation on port property. Meanwhile, Mark Smithson highlighted growing UK interest in Sierra Leone’s maritime sector, citing recent investments in the Port of Lagos, and requested a list of priority projects to facilitate future funding and partnerships.
Underlining the strategic role of concessionaires, Siamba Kamara outlined NSBT's operational footprint across three berths, including a newly constructed facility. Director General Yankuba Askia Bio reiterated the necessity of protecting port lands to maintain revenue generation and efficiency under the landlord-port model.
He emphasized SLPHA’s ongoing contribution to national development through government dividends, framing the dialogue as a crucial step toward positioning Sierra Leone’s ports to attract global capital and drive sustainable economic growth.
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