By Jariatu S. Bangura
The Parliament of Sierra Leone has ratified the Petroleum Regulatory Authority Act 2025 after thorough discussions and amendments, aiming to enhance competitiveness and ensure a consistent supply of petroleum products in the country.
The primary objective of the Act is to maintain the existence of the National Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NPRA) and regulate the petroleum downstream industry which include includes licensing, monitoring, and supervising refineries, transportation, marketing, retail activities, and other related functions in the petroleum sector.
One of the notable amendments debated in Parliament was the term limits for the Director General and Deputy Director General of the Authority. After a vote, both sides agreed to allow the President the discretion to appoint and relieve those officials without imposing specific term limits.
Minister of Trade, Alpha Ibrahim Sesay, emphasized that the new Act is designed to address supply chain challenges in the petroleum sector and improve service delivery nationwide. He noted that the global energy crisis has prompted governments worldwide to adopt policies ensuring the steady availability of petroleum products and competitive pricing.
“The Act will foster a strong and competitive downstream industry, enhance efficiency, and ensure harmony within the agency,” Sesay stated. He highlighted that the Petroleum Regulatory Authority Act had not been amended since its enactment, making it essential to review and update the legislation to align with current trends and future demands.
The minister also pointed out that the revised Act will protect public interests, enforce better management practices, discourage monopolies, and prevent cartel behavior. He stressed the importance of monitoring vessels more effectively and eliminating barriers for new entrants into the industry.
Chairperson of the Trade Committee, Hon. Veronica K. Sesay, described the bill as long overdue, given the persistent challenges in the petroleum sector. She praised the transition from an agency to an authority, stating that it would strengthen the sector and improve public trust.
“It is crucial to ensure good working relationships with oil marketing companies across the country to avoid shortages and maintain a steady supply,” she said. She also promised to conduct effective oversight to safeguard the interests of all stakeholders.
Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara underscored the need for a vibrant regulatory authority, highlighting the lack of local refining facilities and adequate storage infrastructure. He called for practical solutions to address human factors affecting the petroleum market.
Kamara also criticized the preferential treatment of certain customers during fuel shortages, calling for a more equitable pricing formula to ensure fairness between urban and rural areas.
Hon. Ibrahim Tawa Conteh raised concerns about inconsistencies between the new Act and provisions in the 2014 Petroleum Act, noting that some clauses might contravene the Constitution. He urged Parliament to ensure the bill is comprehensive and in alignment with the country’s laws.
With the Petroleum Regulatory Authority Act 2025 now ratified, the new framework is expected to enhance the regulation and management of Sierra Leone’s petroleum sector, ensuring steady supply, improved efficiency, and fairness across the industry.
