Kent, Freetown, 27th July 2026 – Sierra Leone’s maritime and logistics sector is set for a major transformation as Gento Group advances its $75 million Kent–Banana Island Dry Port project, with $30 million already invested and more than 600 Sierra Leoneans employed.
Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, accompanied by Transport and Aviation Minister Ambassador Col. (Rtd.) Alhaji Fanday Turay Esq. and senior officials inspected the site this week, commending the project as a cornerstone of President Julius Maada Bio’s vision to move Sierra Leone “from commitment to transformation.”
The Kent Dry Port is designed to ease congestion at the Queen Elizabeth II Quay, where cargo volumes have surged by 170% year-on-year, threatening inflationary pressures. By expanding port capacity, officials say the project will improve logistics efficiency, reduce the cost of doing business, and sustain macroeconomic stability.
Gento Group CEO Mohamed Gento Kamara confirmed that while the company is working with Italian partners, the bulk of engineers, designers, and technical experts are Sierra Leonean. He emphasized that environmental safeguards are being observed in collaboration with government institutions.
Minister Turay reaffirmed government’s commitment to enabling investments that modernize Sierra Leone’s transport sector. He noted that the Kent project aligns with broader strategies to strengthen maritime infrastructure, create sustainable jobs, and position Sierra Leone as a competitive regional logistics hub.
The government also highlighted complementary investments, including the JMB Fishing Port at Black Johnson and proposals for specialized mining ports, underscoring a wider push to unlock Sierra Leone’s maritime and economic potential.
With $30 million already committed, the Kent Dry Port project signals growing confidence in Sierra Leone’s economy and demonstrates how strategic public-private partnerships can drive infrastructure-led growth.
