By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a groundbreaking step to promote transparency and improve the passenger experience, authorities at the Freetown International Airport have officially declared the facility a “No-Bribe Zone.” This announcement is part of broader reforms being implemented under the leadership of Madam Musayeroh Barrie, Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), whose tenure has brought a new era of credibility and growth to the country’s aviation sector.

Passengers using the Freetown International Airport are now urged to report any form of harassment, including demands for unofficial payments or unprofessional conduct, to the designated information desk within the terminal. The move is intended to foster a safe, professional and corruption-free environment for both local and international travelers.

“The declaration of the airport as a no-bribe zone reflects our commitment to integrity and international service standards,” said an airport official. “This is not a symbolic gesture; clear reporting procedures and partnerships with oversight institutions like the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) are already in place to ensure enforcement.”

This policy comes as Sierra Leone seeks to rebrand its image globally and attract more tourism and investment. Bribery and harassment at ports of entry have long been challenges in several developing countries, but the SLCAA, under Madam Musayeroh Barrie’s guidance, is taking strong action to reverse that trend.

Meanwhile, Madam Musayeroh Barrie has been widely recognized for transforming Sierra Leone’s aviation sector through a range of strategic reforms. One of the most significant accomplishments under her leadership was the country's improved performance in the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Universal Safety Oversight Audit, where Sierra Leone scored 74.22% in 2023, exceeding the Abuja safety target of 60%. That progress places the country on the path to being removed from the European Union Aviation Safety List, a move that would allow Sierra Leonean carriers to access European airspace freely.

The SLCAA has also been ranked the second-best performing agency under the Ministry of Transport and Aviation for 2025, a recognition of its efficiency, vision and national alignment. In the same year, Madam Musayeroh Barrie signed a new Management Performance Contract with the Ministry, outlining clear targets in safety oversight, international partnerships and operational excellence.

In expanding Sierra Leone’s global aviation footprint, Madam Musayeroh Barrie has signed Bilateral Air Service Agreements with countries including Saudi Arabia and Cameroon, while negotiations continue with the UK, Italy, Ethiopia and Malaysia. She also led discussions during President Julius Maada Bio’s state visit to Egypt, resulting in plans for direct Freetown–Cairo flights.

Notably, Madam Musayeroh Barrie has launched technical training programs, sending Sierra Leone’s first airworthiness inspectors to Italy under a partnership with the Italian Civil Aviation Authority (ENAC). On the infrastructure front, the SLCAA has supported upgrades at Freetown International Airport, including a modern car park, fire and rescue services and a 24-hour power supply.

With her leadership widely praised both nationally and internationally, Madam Musayeroh Barrie stands out as a reform-driven public servant. Her bold actions continue to elevate Sierra Leone’s aviation sector; making the skies safer and the airport more welcoming for all. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/no-room-for-bribes-slcaa-sets-new-standards-at-freetown-international-airport/