The Parliament of Sierra Leone on Tuesday 25/11/2025 debated and ratified an Offshore Bulk Handling Concession Agreement for the development of Sierra Leone.
The following agreement was ratified by the Parliament of Sierra Leone:
Agreement of Offshore Bulk Handling Concession Agreement between Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (Authority) and the Government of the Republic of Sierra Leone (GoSL) and Sierra Bulk Handling Limited (SBH), Dated 10th November 2025.
Presenting the agreement, the Deputy Minister of Transport and Aviation, Rex Bonapha explained the importance of offshore trans-shipment. According to the Deputy Minister, this function is one of the core activities of Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority, but due to the large investment required, the latter has never been able to carry out this offshore trans-shipment function. The agreement he stated would give out the mandate to Sierra Bulk Handling to carry out the function with support and supervision from SLPHA.
“Sierra Bulk Handling is seeking concession to carryout offshore handling of consignments for trans-shipment in the waters of Sierra Leone”, he categorically disclosed and went on to say that the company is newly formed by indigenous compatriots to render commercializing activities through offshore bulk handling services.
He underscored that the company would address offshore shipment currently being carried out by private entities with no visibility or inflow of resources for government. The Deputy Minister assured Members of Parliament that the agreement would boost the economy of Sierra Leone through revenue mobilization, job creation, offshore security, and environmental protection, data collection at offshore among others. The agreement he said would incur zero cost to the government, and investment would be provided 100% by the investor. “250 million USD will be paid in ninety days after the agreement is passed,” he revealed and stated that the said amount would be paid on an annual basis to the government. He elaborated on the revenue projection from the agreement, especially from mining companies who are involved in trans-shipment.
On his part, the Chief Whip of Parliament, Hon. Dickson Rogers recalled that this agreement is the first of its kind that would not cost the government a dime with a lot of benefits. He noted that the agreement is in line with President Bio’s promise to provide jobs for his compatriots. He underscored the importance and huge benefits the agreement has in tandem with revenue generation to support development programmes in the country.
Rounding up the debate, Leader of Opposition, Hon. Abdul Kargbo expressed excitement over the agreement and stated that whenever Sierra Leoneans are in investment, he became happier. He made reference to positive environmental protection, safety, transparency, and accountability on import and export facilities in tandem with the prohibition of corruption and the promotion of transparency and accountability. He carefully looked at critical issues, including powers of the government, and reduction of weak controls. He affirmed that the positivity of the agreement far outweighs the negativity.
Concluding the debate, the Leader of Government Business, Hon. Mathew SahrNyuma clarified certain clauses, including projection of revenue generation, inclusion of the private sector, and waiver of consumables. He spoke about the importance and benefits of the agreement and explained the stabilization clauses and handling of unforeseen circumstances. He underscored that the agreement would also address offshore security and drugs smuggling, as well as protection of the sea against pollution. He buttressed the necessity of oversight on the same.
Responding to the concerns raised by MPs, the Deputy Minister assured Parliament that they would address all the issues as deemed appropriate for the improvement, development and implementation of the agreement for the benefits of the country.
