Freetown, September 16, 2026: The Sierra Leone Maritime Administration (SLMA) has boosted its provincial operations with the official handing over of 15 brand new XL off‑terrain motorbikes to staff, aimed at improving maritime safety, monitoring, and revenue mobilization across the country.
The ceremony, held at SLMA Headquarters at Maritime House, Government Wharf in Freetown, saw the distribution of motorbikes to Maritime Traffic Overseers, regional managers in the north, south, and western areas, as well as dispatch riders.
Executive Director Dr. Daniel Kaitibi said the initiative is part of SLMA’s strategic reforms to decentralize services and enhance efficiency at landing sites, riverine communities, and inland waterways.
“Our provincial staff faces huge challenges reaching remote jetties and fishing communities. These motorbikes will enable them to respond faster to safety incidents, conduct inspections, and engage local boat operators on safety standards,” Dr. Kaitibi noted.
He emphasized that under President Julius Maada Bio’s leadership, SLMA has been repositioned to ensure safer seas, create jobs, and increase domestic revenue. He cautioned beneficiaries to use the bikes responsibly, stressing that they are national property.
Western Area Regional Manager Ishmael Kargbo, one of the beneficiaries, expressed gratitude to the government and SLMA leadership. He described the gesture as “good work,” noting that without the bikes, reaching hard‑to‑access areas was nearly impossible.
“Before now we used to walk miles or hire okada to reach landing sites. These bikes will help us a lot. We thank the Executive Director and management,” Kargbo said, adding that his previous bike had served him for nearly ten years.
The event was climaxed with a symbolic handing over of the motorbikes by the Acting Director of Safety.
Background
The Sierra Leone Maritime Administration (SLMA/SLMARAD) is the national authority overseeing the country’s ship registry and maritime sector. It operates under the Merchant Shipping Act, originally enacted in 2003 and modernized with a revised version passed by Parliament on June 11, 2026.
In recent months, SLMA has intensified life‑jacket campaigns, licensing of sea vessels, and training of boat operators in collaboration with development partners. The provision of motorbikes is the latest step in strengthening its provincial presence and ensuring safer maritime operations nationwide.