BY Amos Harris
Monrovia, Liberia – The National Port Authority (NPA) has released a comprehensive 14-month performance report, detailing a series of unprecedented reforms and strategic achievements under the leadership of Managing Director Sekou Hussein Dukuly. The report highlights the Boakai-Koung administration’s unwavering support, which has been instrumental in repositioning Liberia’s port system for enhanced growth, efficiency, and global competitiveness.
In just over a year, the NPA has made significant strides, including a historic 50% reduction in Container Throughput (CT) charges. This crucial move has substantially lowered importation costs, thereby stimulating business activities across the nation.
A landmark development featured in the report is the agreement signed with Tanger Med Engineering of Morocco for the construction of a modern Bulk Terminal at the LMC Pier within the Freeport of Monrovia. This initiative is set to revolutionize bulk cargo handling and significantly elevate Liberia’s maritime capacity.
To address long-standing delays and port congestion, the Authority has extended operational hours, streamlining cargo clearance and improving service delivery. This reform has notably enhanced customer satisfaction and business flow.
On the financial front, the NPA successfully settled a $6.2 million debt owed to Ecobank, a liability inherited from previous administrations. This decisive action has restored financial credibility and fostered renewed investor confidence.
Human capital development has also been a key focus, with over 60 staff members receiving training in port management, logistics, and maritime operations in China and across Africa in 2024. This represents a historic investment in skills development for the NPA.
Further enhancing staff welfare and community health, the NPA Referral Clinic has been fully renovated and reopened, providing essential healthcare access for employees and the surrounding port communities. The Authority has also bolstered its operational capacity through the procurement of 11 pickup trucks and, for the first time, an NPA ambulance and firetruck, significantly improving emergency responsiveness across the port system.
A major infrastructural achievement includes the upgrading of facilities at the Freeport of Monrovia, which has resulted in the attainment of a Class-A rating under the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code. This crucial recognition places Liberia’s ports on par with international security standards.
Technological innovation has played a vital role in the Authority’s progress. The NPA has launched a real-time Digital Interface with APM Terminals, enabling seamless cargo tracking, and introduced a modern, user-friendly website to enhance public engagement and transparency.
Security and nighttime operations have seen substantial improvements with the installation of 24-hour lighting systems at the Freeport of Monrovia and Buchanan Ports, enhancing visibility and operational safety. Additionally, advanced navigational aids have been procured (pending installation) to improve docking speed and marine safety.
Regarding staff welfare, the NPA has resumed NASSCORP payments, clearing four years of unpaid employee contributions, and settled six years of income tax arrears owed to the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA). These actions represent significant steps toward compliance and trust-building.
Importantly, the administration has initiated the revival of the long-neglected Port of Greenville, which had remained dormant for six years. This effort underscores a commitment to decentralize port operations and invigorate regional trade.
To bolster long-term capacity, the NPA signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Regional Maritime Institute, securing 50% discounts on training programs for its staff. Furthermore, a full audit by the General Auditing Commission (GAC) is currently underway, emphasizing the Authority’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
These sweeping reforms have not only repositioned the NPA but also reflect the broader vision of the Boakai-Koung administration for infrastructural renewal and economic revitalization. The leadership has pledged to build upon these gains to establish Liberia as a premier maritime gateway in West Africa.
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