Musayeroh Barrie recognized for Sierra Leone aviation reforms

Musayeroh Barrie, Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), has been recognized as one of Sierra Leone’s most influential women. Barrie, who became the first woman to lead the SLCAA in August 2023, was shortlisted for the ninth edition of the 50 Most Influential Sierra Leonean Women Awards.

Her leadership has been linked to significant reforms within the national aviation sector. Key achievements under her administration include the reintroduction of Air Sierra Leone, the issuance of the country’s first Air Operator Certificate since 2008, and the restoration of direct flights between Freetown and London in April 2025.

To modernize the sector, the SLCAA has strengthened its technical cooperation with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). This includes a 2024 Management Service Agreement aimed at capacity building and the development of strategic frameworks, such as the Civil Aviation Master Plan, the National Aviation Safety Plan, and the National Air Navigation Plan.