AYV News, May 26, 2027
African Global Logistics (AGL) says it is accelerating major infrastructure upgrades and operational expansion at Sierra Leone’s container terminal in response to rapidly increasing cargo traffic and growing demand within the country’s maritime sector.
Speaking during a media engagement, the Regional Director of AGL, Captain Fabjanko Kokan, disclosed that the company has now invested more than $60 million in modernization projects aimed at improving port efficiency, expanding cargo handling capacity, and strengthening service delivery.
According to Captain Kokan, the ongoing investments include the rehabilitation of port berths, installation of modern cargo-handling equipment, expansion of storage facilities, and improvements to energy infrastructure at the terminal.
He revealed that a $6 million contract has already been signed for repairs to the rubber terminal quay, while rehabilitation works valued at more than $25 million are currently underway on berths three, four, five, and six.
The company is also constructing a new office complex worth over $4.5 million to improve documentation systems and customer service operations for port users.
Captain Kokan stated that AGL’s modernization programme is focused on improving efficiency, safety, and faster turnaround times at the port. As part of the expansion drive, the company has completed the installation of solar systems and a $1 million workshop facility, while plans are underway to redevelop Warehouse Number Four.
He further disclosed that approximately 20,000 square meters of additional yard space is being paved to accommodate rising cargo volumes and improve container storage capacity.
The Regional Director also announced that new reach stackers are expected to arrive in July, with additional handling equipment already ordered to support growing terminal operations. Plans are equally underway to acquire another ship-to-shore crane valued at approximately $12 million and upgrade the company’s power plant from six to eight megawatts.
Providing updates on cargo traffic, Captain Kokanrevealed that container imports have risen sharply in 2026. He noted that while the terminal previously handled between 7,000 and 8,000 containers during similar periods in past years, more than 33,000 imported containers were recorded within the first four months of this year alone.
According to figures provided by the company, January recorded 8,500 containers, February 6,500, March 9,400, and April 8,600 containers.
Captain Kokan described the figures as a strong indicator of growing trade activity and projected that overall container traffic could increase by between 10 and 20 percent before the end of the year.
He acknowledged, however, that the rising cargo volumes are creating operational pressures, including congestion linked to empty containers and transportation challenges. He said discussions involving customs authorities, clearing agents, transport operators, and other stakeholders are ongoing to improve cargo clearance processes and strengthen safety standards.
The AGL Regional Director also stressed the need for improved truck safety measures to reduce accidents and support smoother port operations.
On local participation, Captain Kokan said more than 99 percent of the company’s workforce consists of Sierra Leoneans, reaffirming AGL’s commitment to local content development.
Beyond infrastructure, he highlighted the company’s continued investment in education and community development through its HDL Global School Prosperity Programme, which operates across 45 African countries.
“Education is freedom,” Captain Kokan stated, adding that the company’s investments are intended not only to modernize infrastructure but also to create opportunities and hope for future generations.
