Africa-Press – Sierra-Leone. Sierra Leone has reaffirmed its dedication to enhancing maritime governance and unlocking the potential of its blue economy at the 34th Session of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Assembly, held in London from November 24–28, 2025.
The country’s commitment was voiced by a high-level delegation led by Hon. Alhaji Fanday Turay, Minister of Transport and Aviation, alongside senior officials from the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA).
During the session, Minister Turay presented Sierra Leone’s strategic focus on maritime safety, environmental protection, and the economic opportunities offered by its expansive maritime resources.
He delivered the country’s national statement, reflecting President Julius Maada Bio’s vision for robust maritime governance. “Ensuring the safety of life and property at sea, along with protecting the marine environment, remains a paramount priority for the Ministry,” Turay stated.
The minister also stressed on Sierra Leone’s commitment to harnessing its blue economy, which he described as an area of significant untapped potential. He outlined the country’s four key priorities moving forward: strengthening the maritime legislative framework by implementing ratified IMO instruments, executing a national hydrographic action plan to enhance search and rescue capabilities, swiftly adopting the IMO single window platform to streamline maritime procedures, and fully implementing corrective actions from the IMO audit scheme. A central aim of these efforts, he added, is to achieve “white list” status under the STCW Convention for crew training and certification.
Despite these ambitions, Turay acknowledged the challenges Sierra Leone faces in meeting international maritime standards, especially in terms of safety, security, and environmental protection. He called for continued support from the IMO Secretariat and its member states to address these gaps and ensure sustained progress in maritime governance.
“We are committed to working closely with the IMO and our development partners to unlock the full potential of our maritime sector,” Turay said. “The support we have received thus far is invaluable, and we are optimistic about the opportunities for deeper collaboration through the IMO’s technical cooperation programmes.”
In the course of the Assembly, the IMO also held elections for its three membership categories. Liberia secured a seat in Category A, while Nigeria, Egypt, Morocco, and South Africa were elected to Category C. Sierra Leone’s vote for Category B was cast by SLPHA Director General Yankuba Askia Bio.
The IMO Assembly is the highest decision-making body of the Organization and brings together member states to discuss and address issues crucial to international maritime safety, security, and environmental protection. Sierra Leone’s active participation underscores the country’s commitment to advancing its maritime sector and contributing to global maritime governance.
For More News And Analysis About Sierra-Leone Follow Africa-Press
