President Bio Commissions Sierra Leone Ocean Shipping Company

H.E President Julius Maada Bio on Monday, 19th October 2026, commissioned the Sierra Leone Ocean Shipping Company Limited (SLOSCO) at Queen Elizabeth II Quay in Freetown. The initiative aims to expand national shipping capacity, strengthen maritime trade and create employment opportunities for Sierra Leoneans.

The commissioning marks a step towards increasing Sierra Leone’s participation in international shipping. It also reflects the government’s ambition to reduce reliance on foreign shipping services and retain more economic benefits from international trade.

Sierra Leone Poised to Move Beyond Reliance on Foreign Ships 

Speaking at the ceremony, President Bio described the launch as an important step towards changing Sierra Leone’s position in maritime commerce.

“Today, we are taking an important step to changing the narrative of foreign ships only bringing goods here,” President Bio said.

The President emphasised that Sierra Leone must develop the capacity to participate more actively in transporting goods across international markets. He said the country needed to capture a greater share of the economic value generated by its imports and exports.

President Julius Maada Bio giving his speech

A Joint Venture Investment 

SLOSCO is structured as a joint venture between the Sierra Leone National Shipping Agency and China’s Zhejiang Xiehai Group Company Limited. The National Shipping Agency holds a 30 per cent stake, while the Chinese company owns 70 per cent. 

President of Zhejiang Xiehai Group, Wang An, described the partnership as a reflection of longstanding trade relations between Sierra Leone and China. He highlighted its potential to stimulate activities across trade, mining and the marine industry.

Wang also reaffirmed the company’s commitment to local employment, skills development and strengthening Sierra Leone’s shipping management capacity.

A sideview of the ship with China and Sierra Leone Flag

An Economical Milestone

Minister of Transport and Aviation, Ambassador Alhaji Fanday Turay, described the commissioning as a milestone in the government’s transport sector reforms. He said the initiative would promote investment, local participation, skills development and economic growth.

President Bio also highlighted technology transfer and professional training as key components of the partnership. He urged the company to create meaningful opportunities for Sierra Leoneans, particularly young people and women.

He further called on the Ministry of Transport and Aviation, the National Shipping Agency and the company’s partners to ensure transparency, accountability, safety and sound financial management.

Ambassador Colonel (Rtd.) Alhaji Fanday Turay Minister Of Transport and Aviation Giving his speech during the launching

The SLOSCO Should Abide With the National Laws and International Standards

The President alongside key stakeholders pose as the ship moves

The President also stressed that the company must comply with national laws and international maritime standards.

SLOSCO’s establishment comes at a time when Sierra Leone aims to strengthen its transport infrastructure. The country also seeks to expand its role in regional and international trade. Its long-term impact will depend on its operational capacity, management and ability to compete within the international shipping industry.

The company is expected to support the movement of goods by sea, potentially benefiting the mining and agricultural sectors. However, the partnership must turn its ambitions into practical results to deliver lasting benefits for businesses and the wider economy.

By ALISIOUS LIGURIE MATTHEW KONGO