SLCAA DG Named Among Sierra Leone’s 50 Most Influential Women for Transforming Aviation Sector

Madam Musayeroh Barrie, Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), was named among Sierra Leone’s 50 Most Influential Women in the ninth edition of the Fifty Most Influential Sierra Leonean Women Awards.

In the awards ceremony held on 22 August 2026, Barrie was ranked eighth among the top ten honorees in the Leadership and Aviation category. She was recognized for her leadership and contributions to the development of the country’s aviation sector.

On 22 August 2026, Barrie said she was honoured to be included among the country’s most influential women. She described the award as a reminder that leadership must be centred on service, meaningful impact and the creation of opportunities for others, and she dedicated the honour to those who have supported and inspired her throughout her career.

In August 2023, Barrie became the first woman appointed to lead the SLCAA. She is also regarded as one of the youngest Directors General serving in global civil aviation. Since taking office, she has introduced and supported measures to strengthen aviation safety oversight, regulatory compliance, institutional capacity and professionalism within the sector.

Under her leadership, Air Sierra Leone returned to service, the country received its first Air Operator Certificate since 2008, and direct flights between Freetown and London were restored.

In 2024, the SLCAA signed a Management Service Agreement with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to improve technical capacity and compliance with global aviation standards. Work has also commenced on the Civil Aviation Master Plan, National Aviation Safety Plan and National Air Navigation Plan, which are intended to guide the long‑term development of a safer, more efficient and sustainable aviation industry.

During the recent ECOWAS Summit, the SLCAA coordinated the movement of approximately 30 presidential, diplomatic and official aircraft at Freetown International Airport while normal commercial flight operations continued. The exercise involved air traffic management, aircraft parking, ground‑handling services, aviation security, infrastructure assessments and emergency arrangements. The Air Traffic Control Unit coordinated the arrival, departure, sequencing and parking of visiting aircraft, and the Authority deployed an advanced drone‑detection system to strengthen security around the airport.

Heavy rainfall and flooding damaged sections of completed road works around the airport. Engineering teams reconstructed the affected portions and developed deeper drainage channels before the visiting delegations arrived. Barrie reportedly joined personnel in removing floodwater and directing traffic, demonstrating her commitment to practical and people‑centred leadership.

She has also prioritised opportunities for young professionals and women in aviation. More than half of the SLCAA workforce is reportedly below 40 years of age, and over 40 per cent is under 35. Barrie’s advocacy for gender inclusion and youth empowerment encourages young Sierra Leoneans, particularly women, to pursue careers and leadership roles in aviation.

The Fifty Most Influential Sierra Leonean Women Awards is organised by the Port Loko 1000 Organisation to recognise women whose leadership, courage and dedication are transforming lives and supporting Sierra Leone’s development. Barrie’s recognition highlights the progress recorded under her leadership and her contribution to positioning Sierra Leone’s aviation sector for improved safety, stronger international connectivity and sustainable growth.

Article and image source: thecalabashnewspaper.com