On October 24, 2024, in Monrovia, Liberia, the National Port Authority (NPA) officially commissioned a new fleet of vehicles aimed at enhancing operational efficiency at its four primary ports: Freeport of Monrovia, Buchanan Port, Greenville Port, and Harper Port. The ceremony was held at the NPA Headquarters, where the new fleet, composed of eleven pickup carbines, a fire truck, and an ambulance, was displayed. This acquisition is part of a broader strategy to improve high-performance standards and boost employee morale, showcasing the NPA’s commitment to supporting its workforce. Notably, the procurement of the ambulance marks a significant milestone, as it’s the first such purchase under the current management and is intended to provide essential health services to employees.
During the commissioning ceremony, Mr. Charles Massalay, the Executive Director for Procurement at the NPA, praised Managing Director Sekou A.M. Dukuly for his steadfast commitment to a competitive and transparent procurement process that enabled the successful acquisition of this new fleet. Mr. John Siaway, the Senior Director for Transport, underscored the importance of the ambulance, stating that it reflects a growing awareness and responsiveness to the health needs of the staff. He assured the management that the Transport Department would ensure proper maintenance and operation of the vehicles, signifying a forward-thinking approach to NPA’s logistics and emergency response capabilities.
Receiving the keys on behalf of Senior Management, Mr. Emmanuel Horton, Deputy Managing Director for Operations, expressed his gratitude towards both the Procurement and Transport Departments for their tireless efforts in enhancing the NPA’s operational capacity through this new fleet. He emphasized that the leadership at the NPA is committed to ongoing improvements in operations, hinting at future initiatives related to workforce development and capacity building. By acknowledging the role of these departments, Horton highlighted the collective effort involved in driving performance and service quality at the ports.
In his speech, Managing Director Sekou Dukuly recognized the dedication and hard work of the NPA workforce, attributing their commitment to increasing productivity and service quality. He noted that the acquisition of vehicles is part of a series of initiatives designed to bolster workforce development. Dukuly conveyed a strong message about the significance of the NPA in Liberia’s economy, pointing out that 95% of the country’s GDP is facilitated through the National Port Authority. This emphasis illustrates the centrality of NPA’s operations not only to the ports themselves but to the broader economic framework of Liberia.
Dukuly also called upon the workforce to diligently cooperate in supporting the administration of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai—encouraging them to work together toward the common goal of improving the country for all citizens. He reiterated the NPA’s commitment to enhancing Liberia’s port facilities and fostering sustainable economic growth through expanded trade routes and improved logistical networks. By doing so, he affirmed the NPA’s pivotal role in driving the nation’s growth and development, underlining the responsibility of each employee to contribute to this mission.
In summary, the commissioning of the new vehicle fleet represents a critical step for the National Port Authority in Monrovia, Liberia. It underscores the management’s commitment to improving operational efficiency while also enhancing employee welfare through the provision of an ambulance for health emergencies. The event not only highlights the transparent processes that enabled this procurement but also reiterates the importance of the NPA in supporting Liberia’s economic framework. With plans for further capacity-building initiatives on the horizon, the NPA is poised to strengthen its role as an engine for growth in the nation’s economy.
