ARAB CONTRACTORS OF EGYPT ENGAGES SIERRA LEONE PORTS AND HARBOURS AUTHORITY ON STRATEGIC INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT.
Following a high-level visit to Egypt on the 10th of July, 2025 led by the Director General of the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA) and the Honourable Minister of Transport and Aviation to enhance cooperation in port development, maritime safety, and logistics, SLPHA on Wednesday August 20th 2025 welcomed a reciprocal delegation from Arab Contractors, a leading Egyptian engineering and construction firm. The meeting, attended by SLPHA management, Deputy Minister Mr. Rex Bhonapha, and Ing. Dr. Albert Forde, the proposed Director General of the Sierra Leone Railway Development and Regulatory Authority, focused on exploring partnerships for key infrastructure and port projects, with Arab Contractors expressing strong interest after reviewing the viability of the proposed initiatives.
Discussions focused on strategic investment opportunities to enhance railway connectivity, expand port infrastructure, and address key development needs essential for advancing Sierra Leone’s maritime trade and economic growth. In his opening remarks, Deputy Minister of Transport and Aviation, Mr. Rex Bhonapha, emphasized the vital role of strategic partnerships in achieving national development goals, stating, “We recognize that enhancing our infrastructure is a critical component of our national development strategy. Collaborations with reputable firms like Arab Contractors will not only improve our transport networks but also create jobs and stimulate economic growth. We are committed to supporting initiatives that align with our vision for a modernized and efficient transport system,”
In his welcoming remarks, Mr. Yankuba Askia Bio, Director General of the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA), expressed deep appreciation for the engagement, highlighting its importance in positioning Sierra Leone as a leading trade and logistics hub in the subregion. “We are delighted to host Arab Contractors at the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority. This meeting represents a significant milestone in building mutually beneficial partnerships aimed at upgrading our port infrastructure and investigating railway connections that will enhance the efficiency of cargo transport throughout the country. Collaborations of this nature will significantly contribute to the economic transformation of Sierra Leone,” he submitted. Mr. Bio further outlined the Authority’s ongoing reforms and infrastructure initiatives launched under the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority Act No. 29 of 2023, emphasizing that attracting foreign direct investment and fostering technical partnerships are central to building a competitive, world-class, and modernized port system in line with the government’s strategic vision.
The Arab Contractors delegation expressed strong interest in exploring collaborative opportunities within Sierra Leone’s maritime and transport sectors, reaffirming their commitment to partnering with the government and the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA) on projects that deliver lasting economic benefits, create jobs, and enhance trade facilitation. They emphasized their readiness to support infrastructure development initiatives that align with national growth priorities and regional integration goals.
Discussions also focused on potential joint ventures to upgrade existing port facilities, integrate advanced technologies into port operations, and develop new infrastructure meeting international standards. This collaboration underscores SLPHA’s proactive approach to forging credible partnerships that drive sustainable modernization and position Sierra Leone as a competitive player in regional and global maritime trade.
