A coalition of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in Sierra Leone publicly endorsed the proposed Banana Island and Kent Harbour Terminal project during a press conference in Freetown. The endorsement, announced on April 30, 2026, took place at the YACAN Conference Hall located on Settra Kroo Street, off Kroo Town Road. This public declaration of support from a significant segment of civil society shows the perceived importance of the development for the nation's future economic landscape. The project is associated with Mohamed Gento Kamara, who serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the Gento Group of Companies. The CSOs noted the potential for substantial economic transformation and improved living standards as key reasons for their backing.
Job Creation Projections
The Banana Island and Kent Harbour Terminal project is expected to generate significant employment opportunities across various phases of its development and operation. During its construction phase, the project is projected to create more than 1,000 direct jobs. These roles will encompass a wide range of skills and trades, from engineering and construction management to skilled labor and support services, providing immediate economic benefits to local communities.
Once operations commence, the long-term employment opportunities are anticipated to exceed 10,000 positions. These permanent roles will be key for sustaining economic growth and providing stable livelihoods for a large number of Sierra Leoneans. Beyond direct employment within the port and its associated facilities, the project is also expected to stimulate job growth across various related sectors. Between 50,000 and 100,000 indirect jobs could be generated. These indirect jobs are projected to emerge in areas such as transportation, logistics, trade, and various services that would support the port's operations and the increased economic activity it brings. This includes roles in warehousing, freight forwarding, customs services, and a boost to local businesses serving the expanded workforce and trade volumes. The Gento Group of Companies, associated with Mohamed Gento Kamara, is spearheading the project, which promises to be a major catalyst for employment.
Project Scope and Benefits
The Banana Island and Kent Harbour Terminal project encompasses a full infrastructure development plan designed to modernize and expand Sierra Leone's maritime capabilities. This plan includes the construction of a modern seaport, which will serve as a central hub for maritime trade, facilitating both import and export activities. The establishment of this advanced port is expected to significantly increase the country's capacity for handling cargo and improve its position in regional and international trade networks.
The project also features the establishment of railway linkages, designed to connect the port to key mining areas within Sierra Leone. These railway connections are critical for efficiently transporting mineral resources from their extraction sites to the port for export, thereby enhancing the profitability and competitiveness of Sierra Leone's mining sector. The development incorporates the creation of logistics hubs and various industrial facilities, intended to support and expand economic activities around the port. These hubs will provide essential infrastructure for storage, processing, and distribution of goods, creating an integrated ecosystem that maximizes the port's economic impact. Mohamed Gento Kamara, Chief Executive Officer of the Gento Group of Companies, is associated with the project, showing the private sector's role in this ambitious undertaking.
Proponents of the project anticipate that these integrated improvements will significantly enhance the country's shipping efficiency and overall logistics systems. The modernization of port operations and the creation of strong transportation networks are expected to streamline the movement of goods both domestically and internationally. Greater efficiency in these areas is expected to lead to a reduction in the cost of living for residents across Sierra Leone. The improved infrastructure is projected to streamline the movement of goods, thereby lowering transportation and distribution expenses, which could translate into more affordable commodities for consumers. This reduction in operational costs is a key benefit noted by the project's supporters, promising tangible improvements in everyday life for citizens. The Gento Group of Companies is spearheading this initiative, which aims to deliver broad economic advantages.
Civil Society's Role
The Civil Society Consortium on Community Accountability and Service Delivery, a coalition, endorsed the Banana Island and Kent Harbour Terminal proposal following careful consideration of its potential impact. William Sao Lamin, the Consortium's Chairman, stated that the project offers a significant opportunity for national development. "The Banana Island Port Project presents a unique opportunity to transform the economy, create jobs and improve living standards," the Consortium declared in its official statement. This enthusiastic backing from civil society groups signifies a broad consensus on the project's potential to drive positive change. The group also expressed appreciation to President Dr. Julius Maada Bio and Members of Parliament for their approval of the project, acknowledging the vital role of government support and legislative endorsement in bringing such a large-scale infrastructure development to fruition. Alphonso Manley was involved in delivering the Consortium's statement, further emphasizing the civil society's collective support for the initiative and its belief in the project's long-term benefits for the people of Sierra Leone.
