SLPHA demands Le123M from Gov’t for 2027
By Kadiatu Sankoh
The Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA) has disclosed that it contributed more than NLe120 million to the Consolidated Fund through concession fees and royalties, while proposing a NLe123.544 million capital expenditure programme for Fiscal Year 2027.
The disclosure was made by SLPHA Finance Controller, Andrew Tamba Kpulum, during the ongoing FY2027 Bilateral Budget Discussions, where he presented the Authority’s financial performance, operational achievements and priorities for the coming fiscal year.
Kpulum also revealed that the Government of Sierra Leone holds a 20 per cent share in the operations of Freetown Terminal Limited (FTL), highlighting the State’s stake in one of the country’s key port operations.
Presenting the Authority’s operational achievements and priorities for FY2027, Kpulum said the introduction of 24-hour port operations, including pilotage services, is intended to ensure uninterrupted services for vessels and other port users.
He noted that the extended operating hours require staff to provide services beyond conventional working periods, allowing vessels and other port users to be attended to without unnecessary delays
The Authority’s proposed FY2027 capital programme is heavily focused on infrastructure development, with NLe92.4 million allocated to building works, representing roughly three-quarters of the total proposed capital expenditure
According to the SLPHA FY2027 Budget Summary, other proposed allocations include NLe15.77 million for vehicles, NLe4.405 million for computer hardware and software, NLe3.783 million for office equipment, NLe3.665 million for vessels and jetties, NLe2.055 million for furniture, and NLe1.456 million for plant and machine
The allocation for vehicles is expected to support transportation, inspection, monitoring and administrative activities, while investment in computer hardware and software is aimed at strengthening digital systems, data management, communication and other technology-driven port services.
The proposed funding for vessels and jetties will support maritime and port infrastructure, while allocations for plant, machinery, furniture and office equipment are intended to provide the assets required for the Authority’s day-to-day operations.
The capital investment programme comes as Sierra Leone continues to position its ports as a key driver of trade, investment and national revenue. The SLPHA’s emphasis on infrastructure is therefore expected to strengthen the capacity and efficiency of port facilities.
However, the effectiveness of the proposed expenditure will depend on proper procurement, implementation, supervision and value-for-money measures to ensure that the investments translate into durable and functional infrastructure.
The proposed NLe123.544 million capital budget, alongside the Authority’s revenue contribution and operational reforms, forms part of SLPHA’s broader efforts to improve port services, strengthen efficiency and enhance Sierra Leone’s competitiveness as a maritime and trade hub.
The proposed allocations remain subject to the applicable budget approval and implementation processes.