Sierra Leone’s Freetown Port has made significant strides in matching international trading standards with the installation of a brand new x-ray container/cargo scanner.
The new hi-tech, dual-energy scanner has been fitted by Africa Link Inspection Co. Ltd and is capable of x-raying organic and inorganic materials. The new machine can also scan a 20-foot container in just under three minutes.
The machine was unveiled at a ceremony at Elizabeth II Quay on February 2, 2017. In attendance were the Minister of Trade Captain, Alieu Momodu Pat-Sowe; the Deputy Minister of Trade, Washingai Mansaray; the APC Secretary General Ambassador, Foday Yansaneh; Managing Director of Africa Link Inspection Company, Ekow Hayford; the General Manager of Ports, Abu Bakarr Bangura and Madam Binta Jalloh.
During the ceremony, General Manager Abu Bakarr stated that the scanner would help the port reach their goal of being “efficient and secure”.
Technical Paper: African Logistics: An Opportunity to Lead the Way
The x-ray will make it easier for ships to go back and forth without being worrying about potentially carrying prohibited goods. It will also work to reduce turnaround times for container ships that berth at the quay and need to be checked.
The Ports GM, Abu Bakarr has said that with the addition of this ultra-modern scanner, Freetown Port is now one of the leading ports in West Africa.
In related news, PTI reported on the announcement of Freetown's expansion plans last year (2016).
