The Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Government's 'Big Five Game Changers' with a focus on youth employment, port infrastructure, women's empowerment, and trade facilitation in 2027. This was disclosed by SLPHA Director of Finance, Andrew Tamba Kpulun, during the Authority's 2027 Budget Summary presentation at the Miatta Conference Hall in Freetown on October 1, 2026.
SLPHA's five-year strategic plan is aligned with the strategic plan of the Ministry of Transport and Aviation, the National Development Plan, and the President's manifesto. The Authority's priorities for the next fiscal year include improving port infrastructure, strengthening staff capacity, expanding employment opportunities for young people, and advancing the 30 percent quota for women's empowerment.
The Port of Freetown plays a crucial role in transporting agricultural inputs and food commodities, supporting agricultural value chains and the Government's 'Feed Salone' initiative. SLPHA's Director of Finance noted that the Authority has recruited more than 300 young people into permanent employment and plans to increase youth recruitment during the next fiscal year.
The Authority's plans were welcomed by civil society representatives, non-state actors, and media practitioners, who acknowledged SLPHA's contribution to national development while urging continued efforts to prevent congestion at the port. Members of the public also commended the Authority for meeting the 30 percent women's employment and empowerment target and called for increased opportunities for women in the maritime sector.
The Ministry of Finance's technical team described SLPHA's 2027 budget presentation as "detailed and comprehensive." The presentation aligns with the Government's goals of promoting economic growth, reducing poverty, and improving the livelihoods of Sierra Leoneans.
SLPHA's efforts to expand youth employment and port development are part of a broader strategy to drive economic growth and development in Sierra Leone. The Authority's commitment to supporting the Government's 'Big Five Game Changers' reflects its role as a key player in the country's economic development.
The SLPHA's 2027 budget presentation demonstrates its dedication to transparency and accountability in its operations. The Authority's plans for the next fiscal year are expected to have a positive impact on the country's economy and the lives of its citizens.
Key points
- SLPHA to increase youth recruitment in 2027
- Authority aims to improve port infrastructure
- SLPHA meets 30 percent women's employment target
