Freetown, Sierra Leone – January 30, 2026 – In response to the recent hike in fuel prices, the Government of Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Transport and Aviation has announced a 14% increase in sea transport fares for ferries operating between Freetown and Lungi.
The new fares, agreed upon in collaboration with ferry operators, took effect on Wednesday, January 28, 2026.
The adjustment comes on the heels of a public pronouncement by the National Petroleum Regulatory Agency (NPRA) raising the pump price of petrol, diesel, and kerosene from NLe 25.00 to NLe 28.50 per
This fuel price escalation has already sparked widespread tension in Freetown’s transport sector, with operators and commuters clashing over informal fare adjustments in other modes of transportation.
According to the official press release from the Ministry, the fare revisions are intended to offset the increased operational costs faced by ferry operators due to higher fuel expenses.
The route between Freetown and Lungi is a critical link, serving commuters, travelers heading to the international airport, and vehicles transporting goods and passengers across Tagrin Bay.
The ferry service, often utilizing vessels like the MV Mahera, remains a vital and affordable option for many Sierra Leoneans compared to alternatives such as water taxis or the longer road journey.
The updated fare structure, based on the ministry’s document, is as follows:
The press release was signed by Hon. Rex Bhonapha, Deputy Minister of Transport and Aviation, who emphasized the collaborative nature of the decision-making process.
While the ferry fare adjustments have been formalized, other transport sectors are grappling with the fuel hike without official guidance. Reports indicate disputes between drivers of poda podas (minibuses), kekehs (tricycles), and okadas (motorcycle taxis) and their passengers over proposed fare increases.
For example, kekeh riders have attempted to raise fares from Le 5 to Le 6 on short routes, leading to arguments and refusals. Commuters have described the situation as “frustrating and unfair,” with some being stranded due to fare disagreements.
Transport operators are calling for government intervention to either reverse the fuel price increase or provide subsidies to mitigate the impact. As of now, no further announcements have been made regarding fare adjustments for land-based public transport.
This development adds to ongoing concerns about the cost of living in Sierra Leone, where previous fare hikes in 2023 also drew public outcry. Residents in Lungi and surrounding areas, who rely heavily on the ferry for access to the capital, may feel the pinch, particularly students and daily commuters.
The Ministry of Transport and Aviation has not yet responded to requests for additional comment on potential broader impacts or support measures.
