AYV News, May 12, 2025
Sierra Leone’s President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has officially commissioned the CTC Multi-Functional Seaport, a privately built and operated facility developed by CTC Ports and Logistics Limited in Maforki chiefdom, Port Loko district.
The Port is set to significantly enhance Sierra Leone’s mineral export capacity and connect local producers to global trade networks.
Addressing attendees at the commissioning ceremony, President Bio commended the management and staff of CTC Mining and CTC Ports and Logistics for their rapid and transformative work. He proudly noted that the CTC Ports and Logistics is 50% Sierra Leonean-owned and has demonstrated the ability to undertake and deliver large-scale infrastructure projects within a short timeframe.
The President emphasized that since CTC Mining was awarded the Port Loko Bauxite Concession in November 2022, the company has spearheaded significant developments—from launching vessel exports to constructing and now operating a major export seaport.
“The determination of these companies to deliver results is incredible,” he stated.
President Bio highlighted his government’s ongoing efforts to ensure a conducive investment environment through incentives, security, and infrastructure, reaffirming that Sierra Leone is open for investment. He called on Paramount Chiefs and local leaders to protect such investments, stressing that peace and stability are essential for long-term development.
“This seaport is expected to bring global trade routes closer to our producers by linking our mineral exports to international markets,” the President declared. “CTC Mining projects to export five million tonnes of bauxite this year, increasing to 7.5 million tonnes next year. This will significantly boost our national revenue, job creation, and economic growth.”
While celebrating the investment, President Bio also challenged CTC Mining to go beyond raw material exportation by considering local processing and refining of minerals.
“We must move from merely feeding global industries to building our own,” he said. “My government remains committed to value addition, local content policy, and ensuring that Sierra Leoneans are skilled to manage and innovate within large-scale investments.”
Mr. Hisham Mackie, Chief Executive Officer of CTC Mining, praised President Bio’s visionary leadership, describing the seaport as a manifestation of the President’s ‘Tok and Do’ philosophy. He explained that the decision to construct and operate their own port stemmed from a desire to enhance Sierra Leone’s trade logistics and build long-term partnerships to increase the nation’s export potential.
Mr. Mackie revealed that the new port includes a 32-kilometre dedicated haul road, a fully equipped export terminal, and operates as part of an integrated logistics network, designed through national and international collaboration.
Also speaking at the event, Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, His Excellency Qing Wang, hailed the commissioning as a milestone in Sierra Leone’s infrastructural transformation. He noted that the project reflects the fruitful outcomes of President Bio’s recent visit to China and reaffirmed Sierra Leone–China cooperation as a foundation for continued development.
The CTC seaport represents a significant leap in Sierra Leone’s ambition to expand its role in regional and global trade through sustainable infrastructure and strategic public-private partnerships.
