Aruna Turay, AYV News, June 13, 2025
Sierra Leone’s Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, has expressed satisfaction with the leadership and effective transformations done by the Director General, Mr. Yankuba Askia Bio and team at the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbour Authority (SLPHA).
During an unannounced visit to the Authority, the chief minister learnt that there has been a 158% increase in containers between 2023 and 2024, which, according to him, demonstrates effective leadership and shows how the country’s economy is expanding.
He further learnt that there has been a 37% increase in export containers (processed timber, oil, coffee, cocoa, minerals, among other things), which he said shows beyond trade and points to Sierra Leone’s steady forex numbers and appreciation of its currency.
Dr. David Moinina Sengeh said, “Out of 135,000 containers annually, we have only a handful (all, intercepted) containers with drugs or contraband showing how secure our ports are. With 36% gender compliance at the management level, the youngest ever leadership and well-capacitated and certified staff, SLPHA is an example of public sector transformation in Sierra Leone”.
The chief minister informed that in the last two years, SLPHA and NCP have paid about $11m from concession fees to the Government of Sierra Leone, demonstrating value for money and excellent partnership with investors. He said even with an increase in allowable days for demurrage (3 to 7 days), expanded period for auctions (some have spent 500 days beyond the allowed 90 days), and a 60% port occupancy, the Sierra Leone Port is rated as one of the best-performing in West Africa.
“During the tour today, all 8 berths were occupied with ships and more waiting to dock. Economic transformation. Digitisation plans for the single window and other investments by the government will only continue to improve service delivery”. Dr. Sengeh concluded.
Recently, Mr. Yankuba Askia Bio vowed to actively work totransform the country’s Ports into world-class ports that support economic growth and regional trade.
Mr. Yankuba Askia Bio said: “Under my leadership, the management of the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority is fully committed to driving innovation, enhancing efficiency, and fostering sustainable development”.
Mr. Bio has signed the 2025 Performance Contract with the Minister of Transport and Aviation, reaffirming his commitment to excellence in port operations and service delivery.
Since assuming the role of Director General at the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority, Mr. Bio has been focused on solidifying the Ports’ leadership in the sector through dedication, innovation, and collaboration.
In 2024, SLPHA emerged as the top-performing agency under the Ministry of Transport and Aviation, achieving a sector-leading score of 63%. This milestone reflects Mr. Bio’s management’s strategic focus on policy, efficiency and service delivery.
Mr. Yankuba Askia Bio said “I am deeply grateful to His Excellency for the trust placed in me, to the Minister and the Ministry for their unwavering support, and to the SLPHA Board and management for their dedication. I also extend my appreciation to all stakeholders, whose contributions remain invaluable to our progress. Looking ahead, I remain committed to driving growth, enhancing efficiency and setting new benchmarks for excellence in 2025”.
Staff at the SLPA have continuously showered praises at the leadership of Mr. Bio, describing him as an innovator with transformative leadership skills.
The staff said his soft-touch approach with all category of employees of the Authority led to him being affectionately referred to as ‘Jada’ among his peers.
Many said the appointment of this Logistics and Maritime Specialist by President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, resonates positively with operators, service providers at the Port, and various associated agencies across the nation.
Applause have echoed from countless young men and women who have been beneficiaries of his commitment to creating opportunities over the years.
With a wealth of over 15 years of experience in Logistics and Port operations, Yankuba’s journey began as a Sales Supervisor at Sierra Leone Brewery, where he imbibed the core principles of professionalism, diligence, responsibility and performance.
His trajectory continued as he assumed the role of Logistics Supervisor at Bollore Africa Logistics, a subcontractor for the formidable London Mining, overseeing a workforce of over 100 individuals. His role was pivotal in managing procurement and logistics, integral components of the mining giant’s operations.
Yankuba Askia Bio’s dedication and professionalism left an indelible mark at London Mining, where he emerged as a respected figure among colleagues. Tragedy struck during the Ebola outbreak, halting the company’s progress, but Yankuba’s leadership potential had already begun to shine.
Over the past years, Yankuba served as Deputy General Manager at the Sierra Leone Port Authority, playing an instrumental role in its transformative journey.
Yankuba’s academic foundation includes an undergraduate degree in Linguistics/Literature from Njala University, complemented by a Postgraduate Masters in Public Administration. His array of professional qualifications, including his Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) accreditation, underscores his aptitude to lead the Sierra Leone Port Authority.
