The British High Commission in Freetown, in collaboration with Nectar Sierra Leone Bulk Terminal (NSBT), has held discussions with the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA) on potential investment opportunities, infrastructure development and stronger cooperation in the country’s port sector.
The engagement, held on Thursday, 12 November 2026, brought together senior officials from the British High Commission, NSBT and SLPHA to explore ways of improving port operations and attracting international investment.
Among those present were British Deputy High Commissioner Mehdi Hussain, Economic Adviser Tyler Reddin, NSBT General Manager Siamba Kamara and SLPHA Director General Yankuba Askia Bio.
During the meeting, SLPHA Director of Research and Planning, Abu Bakarr Kamara, presented some of the challenges affecting port operations, particularly the unauthorised occupation of land belonging to the Authority.
Deputy High Commissioner Mehdi Hussain sought clarification on how squatter settlements and encroachment were affecting port infrastructure and operations.
In response, SLPHA officials explained that the Government of Sierra Leone was taking steps to address the situation, including efforts to remove unauthorised occupants from port property.
However, the discussions also recognised the challenges surrounding resettlement demands and the need for appropriate solutions.
Speaking on investment opportunities, Mark Smithson highlighted growing interest in Sierra Leone’s port sector among potential investors in the United Kingdom.
He noted that increased investment in port infrastructure could support economic development, improve trade and strengthen the country’s position as a regional commercial hub.
Smithson also referenced British investment in the Port of Lagos, Nigeria, as an example of opportunities for international cooperation in port development.
He encouraged SLPHA to prepare and submit a list of priority projects requiring financial and technical support to facilitate further discussions with potential investors.
NSBT General Manager Siamba Kamara outlined the company’s contributions to port development and operations.
She disclosed that NSBT currently operates three berths at the port, including one recently constructed facility, highlighting the role of private concessionaires in expanding infrastructure and improving operational capacity.
SLPHA Director General Yankuba Askia Bio welcomed the engagement and outlined the Authority’s responsibilities under Sierra Leone’s landlord-port management model.
He explained that SLPHA provides the necessary infrastructure and operating environment for concessionaires and other stakeholders involved in port activities.
Bio also expressed concern over continued encroachment on port lands, warning that unauthorised settlements could disrupt operations, reduce efficiency and affect revenue generation.
He further highlighted SLPHA’s contribution to the national economy through dividend payments to the Government of Sierra Leone.
The meeting ended with a shared commitment to explore further investment opportunities, strengthen institutional cooperation and address challenges affecting the country’s port infrastructure.
The discussions are expected to support continued engagement between SLPHA, the British High Commission and private sector partners on projects aimed at improving port efficiency and supporting Sierra Leone’s economic growth.
