Sierra Leone Ports Chief Urges African Ports to Adopt AI and Cybersecurity

Yankuba Askia Bio, Director General of the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority, has urged African ports to modernize their operations by adopting artificial intelligence and enhancing cybersecurity measures. Speaking at the Pan-African Association for Port Cooperation conference, COPAF 2026, Bio emphasized the need for greater cooperation among African ports to leverage technology and protect against cyber threats. He highlighted the benefits of AI in improving port efficiency, including predicting vessel traffic and speeding up container processing.

Bio pointed to recent progress in Freetown, where the port has been operational 24/7 since the start of 2026, and the Queen Elizabeth II Quay is now congestion-free. The Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority is also developing a Single Window system for remote clearance, set to be implemented by March 2027. This system aims to streamline clearance processes and reduce congestion. Bio's call for modernization reflects the changing landscape of port operations, where technology plays an increasingly important role.

The adoption of artificial intelligence can significantly improve port efficiency, according to Bio. AI can help predict vessel traffic, speed up container processing, identify revenue losses, and track cargo. By leveraging these technologies, port authorities can enhance their operations and services, improving the overall efficiency of their ports. However, Bio also cautioned that increased digitalization brings additional responsibility, making ports more vulnerable to cyber threats.

Bio urged African port authorities to invest in cybersecurity measures and share information on new threats. He emphasized the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing through COPAF, stating that ports should not face cybersecurity challenges alone. Such cooperation could strengthen defenses and improve responses to threats. By working together, African ports can better protect themselves against cyber threats and ensure the secure operation of their facilities.

The Director General of the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority stressed that digital transformation must be coupled with security, data integrity, and reliable telecommunications to support effective port operations. This requires a comprehensive approach to modernization, one that balances the benefits of technology with the need for security and reliability. By adopting this approach, African ports can ensure that they are well-equipped to handle the challenges of the modern era.

Bio's message reflects his belief that African ports must be proactive in addressing the challenges of digitalization and cybersecurity. By investing in technology and security measures, ports can improve their efficiency and protect themselves against threats. The Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority is already taking steps to modernize its operations, including the implementation of a Single Window system and the adoption of AI-powered technologies.

The call for African ports to adopt AI and cybersecurity measures comes as the industry faces increasing pressure to modernize and adapt to changing circumstances. By working together and sharing knowledge, African ports can overcome the challenges of digitalization and ensure that they remain competitive in the global market. The adoption of AI and cybersecurity measures is a key step in this process, one that will help to drive growth and development in the region.

Key points

• African ports must adopt artificial intelligence to improve efficiency and competitiveness.
• Cybersecurity measures are essential to protect ports against threats.
• Collaboration and knowledge-sharing are key to addressing the challenges of digitalization.