Director General of the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA), Yankuba Askia Bio, has called for stronger international cooperation to protect seafarers operating in conflict-affected maritime zones. Bio made this appeal at the 138th Session of the Council of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in London, United Kingdom, from November 2 to 6, 2026. He emphasized the need for collective action to ensure seafarers' safety and prevent them from being exposed to geopolitical tensions.
Bio highlighted growing security concerns along major international shipping routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, the Red Sea, and the Black Sea. He stressed that seafarers, whose work is critical to global trade and maritime transportation, should not be subjected to attacks or danger due to conflicts beyond their control. Bio stated, "Innocent seafarers must never become victims of geopolitical conflicts beyond their control." His comments reflect the urgent need for coordinated measures to protect maritime personnel, vessels, and vital shipping routes.
The IMO Council session also discussed the human cost of attacks on commercial vessels. IMO Secretary-General disclosed 25 confirmed seafarer casualties and at least 130 verified attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz region. These figures underscore the increasing security challenges confronting international shipping and the need for collective action. SLPHA's participation in the IMO Council session demonstrates its commitment to global maritime governance and supporting international initiatives to strengthen maritime safety, security, and seafarer protection.
SLPHA's engagement in global maritime discussions reflects Sierra Leone's contribution to international efforts to address maritime security concerns. Bio's intervention highlights the need to prioritize seafarers' safety, welfare, and protection in global responses to maritime threats. The Director General's call for international cooperation has significant implications for the safety of seafarers and the security of global trade.
The IMO Council session brought together high-level international maritime stakeholders to discuss pressing issues affecting the industry. Bio's participation in the session demonstrates SLPHA's continued engagement in global maritime governance. His comments on seafarers' safety concerns were well-received by attendees, who acknowledged the need for collective action to address these challenges.
The Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting international initiatives aimed at strengthening maritime safety, security, and seafarer protection. SLPHA's efforts to prioritize seafarers' safety and welfare reflect its dedication to ensuring the well-being of maritime workers. The Authority's participation in international maritime meetings has contributed to global discussions on maritime security and seafarer protection.
The issue of seafarers' safety has significant implications for global trade and maritime transportation. As the international community continues to grapple with maritime security challenges, SLPHA's call for cooperation and collective action serves as a timely reminder of the need for urgent and coordinated measures to protect seafarers and ensure the security of global trade. Key stakeholders must work together to address these pressing concerns and prevent further attacks on commercial vessels.
Key points
- SLPHA Director General Yankuba Askia Bio calls for international cooperation to protect seafarers in conflict zones.
- 25 seafarer casualties and 130 verified attacks on commercial vessels reported in the Strait of Hormuz region.
- SLPHA reaffirms commitment to supporting international initiatives to strengthen maritime safety, security, and seafarer protection.
