The Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority (SLRSA) and the Sierra Leone Standards Bureau (SLSB) have launched a joint initiative aimed at protecting motorists and vehicle owners from the dangers of counterfeit and substandard spare parts entering the country.
Formalized through a strategic agreement signed in Freetown, the partnership seeks to strengthen quality assurance and regulatory oversight in the importation and distribution of vehicle components. The move comes amid growing concerns that poor-quality parts are contributing to preventable road accidents and costly vehicle breakdowns.
Speaking at the launch, SLRSA Executive Director, James Bagie Bio, described the collaboration as a proactive measure to safeguard consumers and promote safer roads nationwide.
“We are taking firm action to ensure that every vehicle part brought into this country meets the required safety and performance standards. This partnership with the Standards Bureau demonstrates our shared commitment to protecting lives and improving public confidence in road transport,” Bio said.
He emphasized that many road accidents are linked to fake or low-quality parts such as brake pads, tires, and suspension systems that fail under stress. Strengthening inspection and certification processes, he added, will reduce such risks and improve vehicle roadworthiness.
The Executive Director of the Sierra Leone Standards Bureau, Dr. John Paul Kaisam, reaffirmed that the initiative prioritizes consumer protection within national road safety efforts.
“The use of fake or uncertified vehicle parts endangers not only drivers but every road user. Through this partnership, we will intensify inspections at entry points, certify compliant importers, and raise public awareness on the importance of buying genuine parts,” Dr. Kaisam stated.
The SLRSA–SLSB collaboration will include joint enforcement operations, nationwide awareness campaigns, and strict penalties for importers found violating standards. Both agencies also plan to introduce clear labelling and certification systems to help motorists easily identify approved products.
Motorists, transport operators, and mechanics are encouraged to purchase parts only from verified suppliers and report any suspected counterfeit products to authorities.
This partnership forms part of the government’s broader effort to enhance public safety, reduce road fatalities, and build a sustainable automotive sector that upholds consumer rights and safety.
