By: Kruah Thompson
Monrovia, June 23, 2025: The Deputy Managing Director for Administration at the National Port Authority (NPA), James Richard Bernard, has announced that Liberia is hosting the 10th Annual Conference of Harbor Masters and Port Facility Security Officers (PFSOs) for the Four Management of West and Central Africa.
The event brings together Harbor Masters and PFSO vessels from 22 ports across 20 countries in the West and Central African region.
The conference, according to Bernard, is aimed at enhancing port security and safety, and promoting collaboration across regional port authorities.
Speaking on Thursday at the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs and Tourism, Bernard emphasized that the conference brings together members of the PFS committee and the harbor master community to exchange ideas and strategies for improving maritime safety and port operations.
Without revealing the actual date the event will be held he stated that “This year’s celebration is under the theme, ‘Navigating the Challenges of Port Security and Safety,”
He stressed the importance of aligning the conference with key pillars of President Joseph Boakai’s ARREST agenda, especially in the areas of rule of law, governance, and robust port security systems.
According to the International Harbour Masters Association, Harbor Masters may have legal authority in enforcing maritime and nautical legislation, including powers of inspection and detention of vessels. They must also be fully aware of the scope and legal backing of these powers.
Meanwhile, Port Facility Security Officers (PFSOs) are tasked with coordinating port security, ensuring compliance with ISPS regulations, and adhering to local port laws, particularly in relation to policing and enforcement.
Bernard explained that Liberia, through its membership in regional and international port networks, has benefited from multiple organized conferences and trainings facilitated by the International Maritime Committee of Africa (IMCA), particularly in capacity building, human resource development, and inclusive training.
“We’re also looking forward to improving port facilities, safety protocols, operational systems, human capital, sanitation, and health,” Bernard said, noting particular concern for environmental stewardship, waste management, emergency preparedness, and their impacts on the maritime sector, trade, and tourism.
He added that Liberia remains a founding member of democracy since 1972 and, through regional cooperation, the port authority has gained access to knowledge-sharing platforms, compliance frameworks, and strengthened regional collaboration.
“The port is no longer an isolated node,” he concluded. “We are now integrating into a stronger, smarter, and more secure regional training network.”
