SLPHA Engages Emirati Investors in Strategic Talks on Port Expansion and Railway Development.
The Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA) has taken a significant step toward strengthening international investment partnerships, following a high-level meeting with a delegation of potential investors from the United Arab Emirates in Freetown.
The meeting, held on 29th April 2026 in the conference room of the Director General, Mr. Yankuba Askia Bio, brought together the Authority’s senior leadership, including the Director–General, Company Secretary, and key Directors. Discussions centered on unlocking investment opportunities within Sierra Leone’s maritime sector, leveraging the existing bilateral relations between Sierra Leone and the UAE.
In his remarks, the esteemed Director–General underscored SLPHA’s commitment to modernizing and expanding the country’s port infrastructure to meet growing economic demands. He highlighted the Authority’s strategic vision to partner with Emirati stakeholders in developing new port facilities in key locations such as Solima, Moyamba, and Kent. These proposed expansions are expected to significantly enhance Sierra Leone’s capacity for international trade and position the country as a competitive maritime hub in the region.
Beyond port development, the discussions also explored the integration of supporting infrastructure, particularly the revitalization and expansion of railway networks. This, the Director–General noted, is essential for improving cargo movement from inland production zones to coastal export points, thereby reducing logistical bottlenecks and boosting overall efficiency in the supply chain.
The Emirati delegation expressed strong interest in the prospects presented, acknowledging Sierra Leone’s strategic geographic location and untapped potential in the maritime and logistics sectors. Both parties emphasized the importance of sustained dialogue and technical engagements to further refine proposals and establish mutually beneficial frameworks for investment.
This engagement marks a pivotal moment for SLPHA as it continues to pursue transformative partnerships aimed at driving economic growth, enhancing trade facilitation, and reinforcing Sierra Leone’s position within the global maritime economy.
