Sierra Leone strengthened its footprint in international maritime governance as the Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA) actively participated in the 34th Session of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Assembly in London from 24th–28th November 2025. The delegation showcased the country’s commitment to maritime safety, environmental stewardship, and the sustainable growth of its blue economy.
Led by the Minister of Transport and Aviation, Hon. Alhaji Fanday Turay, the delegation included key maritime leaders. SLPHA Director General Yankuba Bio, Company Secretary Martin M. George, Esq., and Harbour Master Alpha Y. Bangura. Their participation signaled Sierra Leone’s renewed drive toward strengthening maritime governance and leveraging international cooperation.
Delivering the national statement, Minister Turay reaffirmed President Julius Maada Bio’s commitment to strengthening safety at sea, enhancing environmental protection, and expanding opportunities within the blue economy. He stressed that maritime security, efficient navigation, and sustainable resource management remain pivotal to the government’s agenda.
The Minister unveiled four priority commitments expected to shape Sierra Leone’s maritime reforms:
Updating maritime legislation to domesticate ratified IMO conventions and respond to emerging threats.
Implementing the national hydrographic plan to improve search and rescue operations and reinforce coastal state responsibilities.
Accelerating adoption of the IMO single window system to streamline port operations and eliminate administrative delays.
Fully executing corrective measures from the IMO Member State Audit Scheme, with a focus on advancing Sierra Leone toward the STCW white list status for seafarer certification.
Minister Turay also acknowledged the challenges that continue to hinder full maritime compliance, calling for stronger technical assistance from IMO member states and development partners particularly in areas of capacity building, marine safety, and environmental protection.
He expressed gratitude to the IMO Secretary-General and the wider maritime community for their continuous partnership and encouraged deeper collaboration to support Sierra Leone’s ongoing reforms.
During the Assembly, elections for the three IMO membership categories took place. Liberia earned a seat in Category A, while Nigeria, Egypt, Morocco, and South Africa were voted into Category C. Representing Sierra Leone, SLPHA Director General Yankuba Askia Bio cast the nation’s ballot in the Category B elections.