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The Deputy Minister of Defence, Colonel (Rtd) MB Massaquoi, symbolically commissioned newly constructed solar-powered boreholes at Wilberforce Barracks on March 4th, 2025.
This initiative, spearheaded by the Chief of Defence Staff, Major General AI Bangura, aims to address the acute water shortage faced by soldiers and their families in various barracks across the Western Area.
The project, completed in just three months, includes the construction of four boreholes at Murray Town Barracks, five at Juba Barracks, and ten at Wilberforce Barracks. This “welfare-centric” approach by the Ministry of Defence and the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) leadership seeks to improve living conditions and boost morale within the military community.
During the commissioning ceremony, Commander 3 Infantry Brigade, Colonel MM Kposowa, expressed gratitude to the MoD/RSLAF leadership for supporting this initiative. Representatives of the military families, including Mrs. Kumba Lebbie, thanked the CDS for addressing the water crisis and restoring their dignity.
Mr. Mohamed A Bangura, CEO of Moliba Construction Company, the contractor responsible for the boreholes, advised on the proper management and maintenance of the new water systems to ensure their longevity.
The Chief of Army Staff, Brigadier General KT Sesay, emphasized the leadership’s commitment to prioritizing the welfare of its personnel. He highlighted this project as a testament to their dedication and announced plans to extend similar initiatives to other barracks nationwide.
Deputy Minister Massaquoi, speaking on behalf of President Bio, commended the CDS for this initiative and emphasized its alignment with the government’s “Big 5 Game Changer Agenda,” particularly in the areas of health and food security.
The commissioning ceremony was met with jubilation from soldiers and their families, particularly the school children who will benefit from improved access to clean water.
