By Ibrahim S. Bangura
Maforki Chiefdom, Port Loko District – May 9, 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 newly launched seaport is expected to enhance Sierra Leone’s mineral export capacity and provide local producers with direct access to global trade networks.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, President Bio praised CTC Mining and CTC Ports and Logistics for their swift and transformative work. He highlighted that CTC Ports and Logistics is 50% Sierra Leonean-owned and has demonstrated the capability to deliver large-scale infrastructure projects in record time.
Since being awarded the Port Loko Bauxite Concession in November 2022, CTC Mining has made notable advancements, including launching vessel exports and constructing a major export seaport.
“The determination of these companies to deliver results is incredible,” President Bio stated, commending their efforts.
He reaffirmed his government’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly investment climate, offering incentives, infrastructure, and security to attract investors. He urged Paramount Chiefs and local leaders to safeguard such investments, emphasizing that peace and stability are crucial for sustainable economic growth.
“This seaport will bring global trade routes closer to our producers by connecting our mineral exports to international markets,” President Bio declared. “CTC Mining projects to export five million tonnes of bauxite this year, increasing to 7.5 million tonnes next year. This expansion will significantly boost national revenue, job creation, and economic growth.”
The President also challenged CTC Mining to shift beyond raw material exports toward local mineral processing and refining.
“We must move from merely feeding global industries to building our own,” he asserted. “My government remains committed to value addition, local content policy, and ensuring that Sierra Leoneans acquire the skills to manage and innovate within large-scale investments.”
CTC Mining’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Hisham Mackie, commended President Bio’s leadership, describing the seaport project as a reflection of the President’s ‘Tok and Do’ philosophy. He explained that the decision to construct and operate their own port was driven by the need to improve Sierra Leone’s trade logistics and establish long-term export partnerships.
Mr. Mackie noted that the facility features a 32-kilometer dedicated haul road, a fully equipped export terminal, and an integrated logistics network developed through both national and international collaboration.
Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, His Excellency Qing Wang, also spoke at the event, calling the commissioning a milestone in Sierra Leone’s infrastructure transformation. He linked the project’s success to President Bio’s recent diplomatic engagements in China, reaffirming Sierra Leone-China cooperation as key to sustained development.
The launch of the CTC seaport marks a significant milestone in Sierra Leone’s quest to expand its role in regional and global trade, leveraging sustainable infrastructure and public-private partnerships to drive economic growth.