The National Public Health Agency (NPHA) recently evaluated operations at Port Health and the Health Travel Portal at Freetown International Airport. This assessment, conducted on October 30, 2026, aimed to strengthen border screening and enhance coordination with partners. NPHA officials met with key airport stakeholders to assess current operational arrangements and the utilization of the Sierra Leone Health Travel Portal.
The NPHA visit followed a warning from the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) that passengers who fail to submit mandatory health declarations will be denied boarding. The SLCAA's announcement emphasizes the responsibility of passengers to complete their health declarations before arriving at the airport. The NPHA assessment addressed the processes for screening and handling these declarations.
The Sierra Leone Health Travel Portal was launched on June 5, 2026, by Health Minister Dr. Austin Demby, with support from Jhpiego and the World Health Organization. The portal facilitates health declarations at Lungi airport, Queen Elizabeth II Quay, and key land crossings. According to Dr. Demby, the portal improves the country's capacity to address health threats.
All passengers flying in or out of Freetown must complete the Health Declaration Form via the Sierra Leone Health Travel Portal within 72 hours before their flight. They must also submit an arrival form when entering and a departure form when leaving the country. It is essential to retain the QR code or reference number provided upon submission, as this may be requested by officials.
The NPHA's assessment identified issues needing resolution and aimed to enhance coordination with partners while testing systems for monitoring and responding to public health threats at the airport. Recent regional developments have prompted increased scrutiny at the airport and border crossings. Following reports of eight Ebola cases in Kenya, the NPHA called for stringent health measures.
The Sierra Leone Diaspora Investment Conference (SLDIC) will debut in Freetown on December 29-30, 2026, at the Radisson Blu Mammy Yoko Hotel. This event will feature notable speakers, panel discussions, a vendor showcase, and the Diaspora Excellence Awards Gala. The conference forms part of Sierra Leone Diaspora Week, curated by Vickie Remoe.
The Sierra Leone Diaspora Week will unfold in three phases: investment activities on December 28-29, celebratory events from December 30 to January 2, 2027, and concluding with a building phase from January 4-5. Ticket options for the conference include a Conference Delegate Pass, Vendor Package, and All-Access Pass. Tickets can be secured at https://makesierraleonefamous.com/pricing-plans/.
Key points
- The NPHA evaluated airport health screening to strengthen border screening and enhance coordination with partners.
- The Sierra Leone Health Travel Portal was launched on June 5, 2026, to facilitate health declarations.
- The Sierra Leone Diaspora Investment Conference will debut in Freetown on December 29-30, 2026.
