The Republic of Sierra Leone has historically faced significant challenges to the security of its borders. Lack of technology infrastructure and inconsistent processes created varying levels of security along key entry points, including the country’s international airport and inland borders.
Authorities in Sierra Leone lacked a centralized immigration control system with consistent data collection and analysis of passenger biometric information at ports of entry. Without the proper technology, personnel and training, authorities were unable to collect real-time traveler information or coordinate with international immigration databases for watch-list management.
As a result, the citizens and travelers of Sierra Leone faced considerable risks from undocumented and potentially dangerous individuals entering the nation illegally.
To try and solve the problem and bring the Lungi International Airport up to speed, the Government of Sierra Leone turned to Securiport to upgrade the nation’s Immigration Control Systems using advanced biometric screening technologies and data analytics.
Their experts began by assessing the existing infrastructure, then designing and implementing Securiport’s proprietary innovation, the Integrated Immigration Control System (IICS). The Securiport team provided all the necessary resources and installed new, modern immigration booths at Lungi International Airport.
Securiport built a Control Room for the installation of the IICS’s state-of-the-art servers, which contain the databases of the processed data.
They also trained immigration officials and provided ongoing training for new officers on how to operate the IICS, as well as hired and relocated a highly qualified team to Sierra Leone to manage the operation, which included a General Manager, Operations Manager, IT Manager, Financial Manager, Airport Supervisor, Software Analyst, and an IT Engineer.
Securiport’s solution resulted in the creation of numerous stable employment opportunities for local citizens, including IT technicians to provide 24/7 support for the immigration officials.
Securiport’s presence and advanced technologies for immigration control enabled Sierra Leone to receive a positive evaluation during ICAO’s Universal Security Audit Program (USAP). As a result of the implementation of Securiport’s Integration Immigration Control System, Sierra Leone has enhanced its border security with consistent data collection that provides government and immigration officials with more accurate information on passengers entering and leaving the country.
After some hiccups and a public outcry, the government, the airlines and Securiport have agreed the amount passengers are paying and it has been included in the flight ticket, which makes it easier for travelers and Securiport.
Securiport’s permanent team in Sierra Leone includes 50 nationals and 6 expatriates who keep the systems running and provide training and technical support to the government officials who use them.
Wednesday November 08, 2017.
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