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The Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA) has presented its proposed 2027 financial year budget, setting out wide-ranging plans to modernise port operations, improve governance systems, and support trade growth.
The proposal was presented at the Mitta Conference Hall on 1 October 2026 during bilateral budget discussions with the Ministry of Finance.
Finance Controller Andrew Tamba Kpulun said the document provides both operational and financial direction for 2027, with projections extending to 2028 and 2029.
He explained that the budget is designed to guide implementation, monitor performance, and support long-term institutional planning.
SLPHA said the plan covers revenue generation, capital investments, expenditure management, and institutional reforms. It aligns with the Authority’s five-year strategic plan, national development priorities, and the Ministry of Transport and Aviation’s agenda, including government goals on infrastructure and economic transformation.
A major part of the proposal focuses on institutional reform. The Authority plans to strengthen its legal and regulatory systems to improve oversight and efficiency in port operations.
Infrastructure development is another priority. Planned improvements cover port facilities, maritime transport, coastal shipping, and inland waterways aimed at improving connectivity and trade movement.
The Authority also highlighted human resource development as a key pillar of the budget. This includes staff training, skills development, and capacity-building programmes intended to improve service delivery.
In addition, SLPHA set a target to increase women’s participation in employment by 30 percent, as part of its gender inclusion strategy.
Trade facilitation remains central to the budget, with emphasis on improving port services to support agriculture and expand business opportunities through stronger stakeholder engagement.
The presentation also included a SWOT analysis outlining internal strengths and weaknesses, as well as external opportunities and risks facing the Authority.
Kpulun noted that the financial framework also considers revenue sources, capital investment needs, and statutory contributions to the national Consolidated Fund, while maintaining financial sustainability.
The 2027 plan aligns with Pillar Three of the Ministry of Transport and Aviation’s strategy, which focuses on infrastructure-led economic growth.
SLPHA’s Board includes representatives from key institutions such as the Ministry of Transport and Aviation, Bank of Sierra Leone, Sierra Leone Labour Congress, engineering bodies, shipping agencies, and other maritime stakeholders.
Officials said successful implementation will depend on effective funding, disciplined spending, strong coordination, and continuous monitoring of projects.
