By: Usman Fambuleh

The Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA) has launched a comprehensive plan to ease long-standing congestion at Queen Elizabeth II Quay, also known as Water Quay. The initiative, led by Director General Yankuba Askia Bio, introduces an Automated Terminal Operating System (ATOS), replacing paper-based gate passes with digital QR-coded permits to speed up container processing.

The modernization effort also includes new reach stackers and terminal tractors to improve cargo handling, along with plans to deepen berths to accommodate larger vessels. Terminal operators report a noticeable reduction in vessel turnaround times since the reforms began.

DG Bio said the initiative aims to eliminate administrative bottlenecks, reduce demurrage charges for importers, and strengthen Freetown’s position as a competitive transshipment hub in the Mano River Union.