Post a comment
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), Major General AI Bangura has on Wednesday, 26th March, 2025, delivered his maiden address to Western Area troops at the Defence Headquarters, Cockerill Barracks.
The address focused on the significant reforms and achievements aimed at enhancing the welfare of soldiers and revitalizing the armed forces.
Major General Bangura began by extending greetings from key officials, including the Deputy Minister of Defence, Colonel (Rtd) MB Massaquoi, and His Excellency President Brigadier General (Rtd) Dr. Julius Maada Bio, who serves as the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.
In his address, the CDS highlighted a notable shift back to a Tri-Service structure, which includes the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The decision, as directed by President Bio, aimed to strengthen the military’s operational capabilities that had been hampered by the previous Joint Force Command system.
Major General Bangura acknowledged that the former structure had not been in the best interest of the RSLAF, emphasizing that the military’s previous yearning for reform has then been addressed. The CDS stated, “Leaders should have the liberty, interest, and the will to move the reforms forward,” stressing the need for the armed forces to contribute to national development while ensuring the country’s sovereignty is protected.
The CDS detailed ongoing reforms, including the establishment of new units such as the Training, Doctrine and Command (TRADOC), Service Support Command (SSCOM), and Combat Support Brigade. He asserted that those initiatives are essential for reducing the RSLAF’s reliance on government funding.
Moreover, Bangura addressed acute welfare issues affecting soldiers and their families. Key initiatives include the construction of boreholes at Murray Town and Wilberforce Barracks to combat water shortages, an 82% increase in the funeral benefit for deceased personnel, and improved transportation services for troops in the Western Area.
Reportedly, the leadership was also committed to enhancing troops’ operational efficiency by increasing the Ration Cash Allowance (RCA) and Monthly Running Costs (MRC). Additionally, plans for the First RSLAF National Defence and Strategy Policy were reportedly underway, and that efforts were being made to support veterans through new gender-sensitive legislation.
Major General Bangura also announced plans for agricultural and housing projects, including cultivating cashew farms and developing estates for service personnel. He further revealed that assistance from the African Union worth $9.5 million in peace support equipment is expected to boost the forces’ capabilities.
In conclusion, Bangura encouraged troops to maintain discipline, avoid drugs, and fully embrace the reform process. During a question-and-answer session, personnel expressed concerns about welfare, leave allowances, and the timely payment of death benefits to families, which the CDS addressed directly.
Report asserted that the address was well-received, with many personnel commending the leadership’s efforts to manage welfare issues positively within a short span of 100 days. Major General AI Bangura’s commitment to reform and welfare initiatives is believed to have marked a significant step toward a stronger, and more effective RSLAF.
