Finance Minister Calls for Expanded Port Infrastructure to Support Sierra Leone’s Economic Growth
Sierra Leone’s Minister of Finance, Hon. Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura, has called for expanded port infrastructure to support the country’s growing economy and increasing trade demands.
Speaking during the 2026 Supplementary Budget proceedings, Bangura said Sierra Leone could no longer rely solely on its existing port capacity as economic activity and the productive sectors continue to expand.
He called for the development of additional port facilities, including a dedicated facility for bulk mineral exports, while other ports could handle general cargo, imports, exports and other commercial activities.
The Minister noted that congestion at existing facilities could place pressure on the movement of goods and potentially constrain trade, investment and economic growth if port capacity is not expanded.
He stressed that increased port capacity would help ease congestion, improve the movement of goods, support the mining and productive sectors, reduce logistical bottlenecks and strengthen Sierra Leone’s position in regional and international trade.
Bangura’s remarks underline the need for Sierra Leone to plan its infrastructure development in line with the country’s future economic ambitions rather than its current needs alone.
As the economy grows and becomes more diversified, adequate and efficient port infrastructure will remain critical to supporting trade, investment and broader economic development.
