By Hajaratu S. Bangura
Cabinet has approved the National Transport Sector Policy and Strategic Plan for 2026–2030, establishing a comprehensive framework for the development, regulation, coordination and modernisation of Sierra Leone’s transport sector.
The Minister of Information and Civic Education, Hon. Chernor Bah, announced the Cabinet decision during the Government Weekly Press Conference on Tuesday, 15 September 2026 held at the Miatta Civic Centre in Freetown.
According to the Minister, the policy and strategic plan were presented to Cabinet by the Minister of Transport and Aviation during a special Cabinet session devoted to reviewing the future of transportation in Sierra Leone.
“The new policy will provide a coordinated framework for building an integrated, safe, secure, affordable, accessible, efficient, sustainable and resilient transport sector,” he stated.
The policy covers the country’s land, maritime and aviation transport systems and is expected to guide government interventions in several key areas, including road infrastructure, public transportation, maritime transport, aviation, road safety, transport-sector financing, institutional governance and electric mobility.
He explained that the document is significant because it provides a unified national direction for addressing the challenges affecting transportation and improving the movement of people and goods across the country.
The policy also seeks to strengthen coordination among the institutions responsible for transport services while promoting safety, accessibility, affordability and environmental sustainability.
Cabinet further authorised the Minister of Transport and Aviation to work with the Office of the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice and other relevant ministries, departments and agencies to initiate the legislative, regulatory and institutional reforms required for the effective implementation of the policy.
Minister Bah described the document as an important and wide-ranging policy that required Cabinet to dedicate considerable time to examining its provisions and implications for the country’s development.
The implementation of the National Transport Sector Policy and Strategic Plan is expected to support economic growth, strengthen connectivity, improve road safety and provide a more modern, reliable and inclusive transport system for citizens.
The Government reaffirmed its commitment to undertaking the necessary legal and institutional reforms to translate the policy into practical improvements across Sierra Leone’s transport sector.
