The Chair of National Commission for Privatisation (NCP), Napoleon Koroma, told workers of Lungi airport that President Bio will abandon the Mamamah airport project. President Bio, during the election campaign, referred to the new airport as “a sham project”. He said they will not go ahead with that project. Instead, they will continue to upgrade Lungi airport.
Koroma visited the Lungi International Airport and the Queen Elizabeth II Quay in Freetown, to learn about both institutions.
During his election campaign last March, President Bio promised to scrap the $400 million USD loan agreement between China and the Koroma government for the construction of a new airport, which effectively would have meant abandoning Lungi airport, despite previous governments having spent over $100 million since 2001 in redevelopment. “Lungi airport is here to stay,” said the President.
Last week, president Bio signaled his commitment to make good on their promise when the Privatisation Commission met regarding the management of the airport and seaport to discuss strategies aimed at improving effectiveness and efficiency, as well as streamlining their operations.
Sierra Leone’s economy needs a major boost and to do so will require massive increase in foreign direct investments estimated at over $500 million USD. But investments can only come if the country’s international airport and seaport are operating to international standards.
The NCP Chair said he will inform the President about the pressing challenges facing the airport.
The General Manager of the Sierra Leone Airports Authority, Idriss Nabie Fofanah, spoke about the progress that has been achieved in improving services at the Airport, as well as the huge challenges facing the airport management, such as electricity supply.
The NCP Chair also met with the management of the air cargo team, Sky Handling Partners, and promised to have deeper engagement with them regarding their services and the fees they levy.
26/6/18
Wednesday June 27, 2018.
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