London, 28th November, 2025 – Sierra Leone has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening maritime governance and unlocking the potential of its blue economy during the 34th Session of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Assembly, held in London from November 24–28.
The Sierra Leone delegation was led by Hon. Alhaji Fanday Turay, Minister of Transport and Aviation, alongside senior officials from the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA), including Director General Yankuba Bio, Company Secretary Martin M. George, Esq, and Harbour Master Alpha Y. Bangura.
Delivering Sierra Leone’s national statement, Minister Turay underscored President Julius Maada Bio’s vision for maritime governance, stressing that “ensuring the safety of life and property at sea, along with protecting the marine environment, remains a paramount priority for the Ministry.”
In the area of unlocking the blue economy, Turay highlighted the vast potential of Sierra Leone’s blue economy, pledging continued collaboration with the IMO and development partners to harness opportunities in the maritime sector.
He outlined four immediate priorities including, strengthening the maritime legislative framework by implementing ratified IMO instruments, executing a national hydrographic action plan to boost search and rescue capabilities, rapid adoption of the IMO single window platform to streamline procedures and full implementation of corrective actions from the IMO audit scheme, with emphasis on achieving “white list” status under the STCW Convention for crew training and certification.
Acknowledging the challenges Sierra Leone faces in meeting international compliance standards, Turay appealed for sustained support from the IMO Secretariat and member states, particularly in areas of safety, security, governance, and marine environmental protection.
He expressed gratitude to the IMO Secretary General, member states, and partner organizations for their continued support, voicing optimism for deeper collaboration under the IMO’s technical cooperation programmes.
The Assembly also conducted 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.
