London, United Kingdom, October 26, 2025 – Madam Musayeroh Barrie, the Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), has been bestowed with the esteemed Africa Women Leadership Impact Award at the launch of the Africa Women Summit UK. The award ceremony brought together distinguished leaders, diplomats, and women change makers from across Africa and the diaspora to celebrate women who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, innovation, and commitment to societal transformation.
Delivering the keynote address at the ceremony, Madam Barrie expressed her deep gratitude to the organizers for the recognition, describing the award as a testament to perseverance, purpose, and the power of women to drive change. “I proudly accept this award not just for myself, but on behalf of every woman who has dared to dream beyond limitations,” she said.
Madam Barrie reflected on her journey from Sierra Leone to the United Kingdom and back, sharing how her decision to return home in 2010 shaped her career and renewed her sense of purpose. As the first woman to serve as Director General of the SLCAA and the youngest person globally to hold such a position, Madam Barrie has made history with her appointment in August 2023.
Under her leadership, the SLCAA has overseen significant reforms in Sierra Leone’s aviation sector, including improvements in regulatory oversight, safety standards, and capacity development. Key milestones achieved during her tenure include the relaunch of Air Sierra Leone and the re-establishment of direct flights between Freetown and London Gatwick, signalling the country’s renewed international connectivity and progress.
Madam Barrie paid tribute to her support system, especially her mother, whom she described as her “rock and greatest blessing.” “When you see a woman thriving, know that there’s a support system often unseen helping her to stand tall,” she said. She also extended her appreciation to His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio for entrusting her with leadership based on merit, noting that his administration’s confidence in young professionals and women continues to inspire transformation.
In her closing remarks, Madam Barrie urged African women to collaborate across borders and sectors to amplify their collective impact. “When African women rise, whole communities, nations, and continents rise with us,” she concluded.
The Africa Women Leadership Impact Award recognizes visionary women whose leadership and influence are driving sustainable progress across the continent. Madam Barrie’s achievement is a testament to her dedication and commitment to excellence, and her award serves as an inspiration to women everywhere.
