Yankuba Askia Bio, Director General of the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA), has called for greater cooperation among African ports to modernise operations, leverage artificial intelligence, and enhance protection against cyberattacks.
Addressing the Pan-African Association for Port Cooperation conference, COPAF 2026, Bio stressed that ports cannot rely on manual and paper-based systems any longer. He pointed to recent progress in Freetown, where the port has been operational 24/7 since the start of 2026, and the Queen Elizabeth II Quay is now congestion-free. Additionally, SLPHA is developing a Single Window system for remote clearance, set to be implemented by March 2027.
Bio highlighted that artificial intelligence can significantly improve port efficiency by predicting vessel traffic, speeding up container processing, identifying revenue losses, and tracking cargo. He urged port authorities to explore how these technologies can enhance their operations and services.
However, he cautioned that increased digitalisation brings additional responsibility, making ports more vulnerable to cyber threats. Bio urged African port authorities to invest in cybersecurity measures and share information on new threats.
He also emphasised the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing through COPAF, stating that ports should not face cybersecurity challenges alone. Such cooperation could strengthen defences and improve responses to threats.
Bio’s message reflects his belief that digital transformation must be coupled with security, data integrity, and reliable telecommunications to support effective port operations.
