Sekou Dukuly, Managing Director of Liberia’s National Port Authority (NPA), has vehemently refuted criticisms leveled against his leadership, characterizing them as baseless propaganda. He asserts that his focus remains firmly fixed on implementing President Joseph N. Boakai’s agenda for the NPA, emphasizing a transformative approach that deviates significantly from past practices. Dukuly highlights the port’s financial contribution of US$3 million to the national budget in his first year as Managing Director, a testament, he argues, to the positive changes underway. He acknowledges the inherent challenges inherited upon assuming leadership, citing issues ranging from dilapidated infrastructure to legacy problems, staffing deficiencies, and outstanding debts.
Dukuly underscores the importance of strategic personnel appointments in revitalizing the NPA, placing qualified individuals in appropriate roles to drive progress. He also emphasizes the significance of international collaborations, citing a partnership with the Chinese Embassy that facilitated the training of 25 NPA employees at Nimbo Polytechnic University in China. This training focused on enhancing their technical expertise in global port management, equipping them with the skills necessary to modernize and optimize port operations. Dukuly further points to the successful renegotiation of the Marine Service Agreement, a key concession agreement that had been overdue for review. This renegotiation, he asserts, resulted in an increased royalty rate from 15% to 20% and a crucial step towards “Liberianizing” the provider, ultimately paving the way for Liberian control of the Marine Services Program within five years.
A central theme of Dukuly’s defense of his leadership is the NPA’s financial contributions to the national budget. He contests the Senate’s initial assessment of the NPA’s contribution at US$5.8 million, arguing that it fails to consider past practices where collected funds were often diverted to operational expenses rather than remitted to the government. He contrasts this with the NPA’s performance under his leadership, highlighting a contribution of US$8.1 million in his first year. This includes the US$3 million direct contribution and additional funds derived from taxes withheld from concessions, demonstrating a clear commitment, he argues, to responsible financial management and maximizing contributions to national coffers.
Dukuly details the complexities of managing inherited agreements and the proactive steps taken to address them. He mentions a one-year extension of an existing agreement due to disagreements between the previous government and Avian Terminals, preventing a five-year renewal. Under his leadership, he explains, the NPA successfully renegotiated this agreement within six months, securing a five-year renewal with Avian Terminals. This achievement, coupled with the increased royalty rate and the plan to transition control of the Marine Services Program to Liberian nationals within the agreement’s timeframe, underscores his emphasis on long-term strategic development and national capacity building within the maritime sector.
Dukuly’s account paints a picture of a leader determined to reform and modernize the NPA, navigating complex legacy issues and forging strategic partnerships to achieve these goals. He emphasizes financial transparency and maximized contributions to the national budget, contrasting his approach with past practices. The renegotiation of the Marine Service Agreement and the focus on training Liberian personnel to eventually assume control of the program highlight his strategic vision for long-term development and national ownership of critical port operations. His narrative frames the criticisms against him as resistance to change and a misunderstanding of the complexities and challenges inherent in transforming an institution like the NPA.
In essence, Dukuly presents a narrative of proactive leadership focused on reforming the NPA and maximizing its contribution to the national economy. He highlights the challenges inherited, the strategic partnerships forged, and the financial successes achieved during his tenure. He positions the criticisms against him as stemming from a resistance to the necessary changes being implemented and a lack of appreciation for the complex realities of managing a vital national asset like the National Port Authority. His emphasis on transparency, accountability, and long-term strategic planning seeks to portray a leader committed to modernizing the port and ensuring its sustainable contribution to Liberia’s economic development.
