NSBT celebrates launch of new third berth in Freetown

(Posted on 22/04/25)

Nectar Sierra Leone Bulk Terminal (NSBT) is celebrating the operational launch of a new third berth with the arrival of its first vessels, marking a significant milestone at QEII Terminal in Freetown, Sierra Leone’s principal commercial port and one of West Africa's international trade gateways. The boosted capacity and modernisation at the port is a significant source of Sierra Leone's economic prosperity, serving as a vital gateway for import and exports.

NSBT welcomed its inaugural vessel, the SAFI NALFI, to its deep-water berth on Friday, Dec 20th 2024, carrying bagged rice. This critical piece of infrastructure now accommodates vessels of 225 meters and 12 meters operational draft (design draft of 13m), increasing the port's capacity to handle larger vessels and bulk cargo.

The Port of Freetown is the principal commercial port in Sierra Leone and is the most important entry gate for trade and commerce in the country. This project also incorporated the refurbishment of the existing berths in partnership with Marine Consulting Engineers, Beckett Rankine and Civil Engineering firm, Eiffage Génie Civil. The project would not have been possible without the support of Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority, Ministry of Transport.

With the steady arrival of vessels this year, the new berth has increased capacity at the port by more than 30%, strengthening customer supply chains with enhanced global connectivity, increased reliability, and quicker turnaround times. Cargo movements have contained shipments of bagged rice, flour, crude oil and aggregates.

Siamba Kamara, General Manager at NSBT commented, “Cargo handling at the terminal has been exceptionally efficient and well-coordinated. The team ensures smooth operations, from careful loading and unloading, minimising delays and ensuring the safe handling of all types of cargo. The team’s expertise and commitment to quality service make for a seamless and reliable operations.”

Recent improvements at the QEII Terminal have proven to be instrumental in attracting recognized global players. The 3rd berth’s capacity opens new avenues for trade, strengthens the logistics network and increases regional economic growth.

NSBT and Nectar Group have committed to addressing the region's shipping challenges by strengthening port performance, efficiency, and resilience through increased investment in infrastructure, technology, and digitalization. A rolling programme of developments have been addressing key issues, including:

• Upgrades to existing port equipment and the commissioning of new equipment to enable faster, versatile and safer cargo handling.

• Traffic management has been greatly improved to minimize bottlenecks and waiting times for vessels and to reduce the carbon footprint associated with each shipment.

• Improved storage/warehousing facilities with enhanced space optimization.

• Improvement to quayside/port lighting, more informative signage and utilization of solar power.

• Technology and communication investments with real-time cargo updates, efficient scheduling, and transparent pricing structures.

Through the integration of technology, enhanced efficiency, safety and sustainability, the dry bulk industry in Sierra Leone has a great opportunity for transformative change.

NSBT is responsible for all bulk & break-bulk operations including project cargo from unloading vessels to storing cargo in the port’s extensive warehousing facilities. In addition to the recent port expansion program, NSBT offers enhanced port and facility security, international best practices, maintenance and skilled personnel. The Group proudly employs around 100 people at the port in Freetown, with 97% of its workforce being Sierra Leonean.