By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Musayeroh Barrie, Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), has placed Sierra Leone firmly on the global aviation map following her active participation in the Singapore Airshow 2026, one of the world’s most influential aerospace and defence exhibitions.

The 10th edition of the biennial Singapore Airshow is taking place from February 3 to 8, 2026, at the Changi Exhibition Centre, bringing together leading aircraft manufacturers, airline executives, civil aviation regulators, military chiefs and industry innovators from across the globe. The opening ceremony was held on February 2, setting the stage for high-level dialogue, strategic partnerships and spectacular flying displays.

Speaking from the Airshow, Madam Musayeroh Barrie described her engagements as “productive and forward-looking,” noting that she held strategic discussions with fellow Directors General of Civil Aviation from Eswatini and Namibia, representatives of the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC), women in aviation networks and the Chief Executive Officer of RwandAir, Yvonne Makolo. According to her, the discussions reaffirmed Africa’s strategic and growing role in shaping the future of global aviation.

“The Singapore Airshow provides a unique platform for African aviation leaders to exchange ideas, strengthen cooperation and ensure that the continent’s voice is well represented in global aviation policy and innovation,” Madam Musayeroh Barrie said. She emphasized that Africa’s expanding markets, youthful workforce and increasing demand for air connectivity make the continent central to the industry’s long-term growth.

Beyond the policy engagements, the Airshow is also renowned for its spectacular flying displays, featuring aerobatic teams from multiple countries and cutting-edge commercial and military aircraft. Madam Musayeroh Barrie highlighted the return of “Weekend@Airshow,” scheduled for February 7 and 8, which offers the public an opportunity to witness adrenaline-pumping aerial manoeuvres, interact with industry mascots and experience aviation-focused family activities.

Madam Musayeroh Barrie’s presence at the Singapore Airshow comes against the backdrop of significant reforms within Sierra Leone’s aviation sector. She made history as the country’s first female Director General of Civil Aviation and is among the youngest globally to hold such a position. Her appointment marked a generational shift in a traditionally male-dominated and technically conservative field.

Since assuming office, Madam Musayeroh Barrie has guided the sector through post-pandemic recovery while laying the groundwork for sustainable growth anchored in safety, professionalism and strategic planning. She brings to the role a strong academic and professional background, holding a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, a Master’s degree in Business Administration and a Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership from the Chartered Management Institute in the United Kingdom. She is also a certified Aviation Security Professional Manager (AVSEC PM).

Before her appointment as Director General, Madam Musayeroh Barrie served for over a decade as Country Director for an international aviation security services provider, overseeing operations at Freetown International Airport. That experience, stakeholders say, equipped her with a rare combination of regulatory insight and hands-on operational expertise.

Under her leadership, SLCAA has intensified regulatory oversight, strengthened airline coordination and aligned safety management systems with International Civil Aviation Organization standards. A major milestone during her tenure was the issuance of Sierra Leone’s first Air Operator Certificate since 2008, restoring credibility to the certification process and paving the way for renewed airline confidence.

Sierra Leone has since recorded a modest but meaningful increase in air transport activity. Industry analysts attribute that growth to improved safety oversight, regulatory predictability and strengthened institutional capacity. The revival of Air Sierra Leone and the restoration of direct flights between Freetown and London further underscored the sector’s gradual recovery.

Madam Musayeroh Barrie has also championed long-term planning through a landmark Management Service Agreement signed with the International Civil Aviation Organization, leading to the development of key frameworks such as the Civil Aviation Master Plan and National Aviation Safety Plan.

With Sierra Leone pursuing deeper regional integration, expanded tourism and increased foreign investment, Madam Musayeroh Barrie’s engagement at the Singapore Airshow 2026 underscores a confident, outward-looking aviation sector. Observers say her steady leadership, inclusive vision and strong emphasis on compliance are positioning the country’s aviation industry as a credible global partner, guided by a Director General whose influence extends well beyond the runway. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/slcaa-dg-showcases-sierra-leones-aviation-reforms-at-singapore-airshow-2026/