The National Public Health Agency (NPHA) evaluated operations at Port Health and the Health Travel Portal at Freetown International Airport on Friday, 30 October 2026, in an effort to strengthen border screening.
This review followed a warning from the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) that passengers who fail to submit the mandatory health declaration will be denied boarding.
During the visit, NPHA officials met with key airport stakeholders to assess current operational arrangements and how the Sierra Leone Health Travel Portal is utilised. They identified issues needing resolution and aimed to enhance coordination with partners while testing systems for monitoring and responding to public health threats at the airport.
The SLCAA’s announcement places the onus on passengers to complete their health declarations before arriving at the airport. The NPHA visit addressed the processes for screening and handling these declarations, although it did not directly respond to the SLCAA notice.
Recent regional developments have prompted increased scrutiny at the airport and border crossings. Following reports of eight Ebola cases in Kenya, the NPHA called for stringent health measures, requiring travellers from affected regions to monitor their health for 21 days and provide accurate information.
Launch of the Health Travel Portal occurred on 5 June 2026, led by Health Minister Dr Austin Demby, with support from Jhpiego and the World Health Organization. The portal facilitates health declarations at Lungi airport, Queen Elizabeth II Quay, and key land crossings. Dr Demby stated it improves the country’s capacity to address health threats.
All passengers flying in or out of Freetown must complete the Health Declaration Form via the Sierra Leone Health Travel Portal within 72 hours before their flight. They also need to submit an arrival form when entering and a departure form when leaving the country. It is crucial to retain the QR code or reference number provided upon submission, as this may be requested by officials. An e-Visa does not replace the health declaration; both must be completed.
Looking ahead, the Sierra Leone Diaspora Investment Conference (SLDIC) will debut in Freetown on 29–30 December 2026 at the Radisson Blu Mammy Yoko Hotel. This event will feature notable speakers, panel discussions, a vendor showcase, and the Diaspora Excellence Awards Gala.
The conference forms part of Sierra Leone Diaspora Week, curated by Vickie Remoe. The week will unfold in three phases: investment activities on 28–29 December, celebratory events from 30 December to 2 January 2027, and concluding with a building phase from 4–5 January.
Ticket options for the conference include:
- Conference Delegate Pass ($125): Access to keynote speeches and panel discussions, including meals on both days.
- Vendor Package ($500): Small businesses can showcase to over 1,000 diaspora investors, including promotional features and meals.
- All-Access Pass: Entry to all activities of the week, including VIP access at events.
Tickets can be secured at https://makesierraleonefamous.com/pricing-plans/.
