By: Claudia Redwood-Sawyerr
President Dr Julius Maada Bio has announced laudable initiatives to strengthen the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces including a 25% salary increase, the establishment of defence enterprise services, and expanded infrastructure and development projects, during his keynote address at the 17th Armed Forces Day celebration held at the Hockey Pitch in Freetown.
The President emphasized that “a modern armed forces must contribute not only to national security but also to national development”. To this end, he disclosed that his government has approved the establishment of defence enterprise services, including an endowment and loan scheme to support RSLAF personnel. He further announced the allocation of 10,000 acres for agricultural projects aligned with the Feed Salone agenda, alongside plans for explosive management services for the mining sector and an engineering corporation to support national infrastructure development.
As part of these initiatives, President Bio highlighted ongoing and planned infrastructure projects involving the RSLAF, including the 52.3 kilometre Mine 91 feeder road, the construction of a 1.5 kilometre paved road at the Armed Forces Training Centre, and a 27-kilometre paved road in Kambia District. He directed relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies to collaborate closely with the RSLAF to ensure timely delivery of these projects.
Addressing the welfare of service personnel, the President announced the approval of a 25% salary increase for members of the Armed Forces, effective April 2026. He noted that the decision was guided by the recommendations of the Armed Forces Pay Review Board and described the increment as a recognition of service, an investment in morale, and a reaffirmation of the government’s trust in the military. He directed the Chief of Defence Staff and the Director-General of the Ministry of Defence to work with the Ministry of Finance to ensure full implementation of the salary adjustment.
“The welfare of our Armed Forces remains a priority for my government“ he stated.
President Bio also emphasized the importance of inclusivity within the Armed Forces, noting that female representation has increased to 14.7 percent under his administration. While acknowledging the progress made, he called for sustained recruitment and increased female representation in leadership positions, with a target of achieving a 30 % quota in line with the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act of 2022.
In a tribute to veterans, the President saluted their courage, loyalty and honour, acknowledging the challenges they face after service. He reaffirmed his commitment to the swift enactment of the Military Veterans Bill currently before Parliament and directed that the process be completed by May 2026.
“We defended our nation. Now the nation must defend us,” he said.
