The Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) is undergoing a significant transformation under the leadership of its newly appointed Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Major-General Amara Idara Bangura, with a key focus on strengthening its personnel through a substantial new recruitment drive.

Spearheaded by Major-General Bangura, whose appointment followed the retirement of Lieutenant-General Peter Lavahun in November 2024 and who officially took office on December 5, 2024, the RSLAF has enlisted 1,040 young Sierra Leoneans. This marks the largest recruitment intake since the end of the country’s civil war in 2002, signaling a renewed commitment to bolstering the nation’s defense capabilities.

Training for these new recruits commenced on March 31, 2025, at upgraded facilities in Benguema and Hastings. The refurbished Kabbah Hall at Benguema, named in honor of former President Ahmad Tejan Kabbah, is among the facilities now hosting the training.

This significant recruitment drive is part of broader reforms initiated by Major-General Bangura since assuming his role. These reforms, undertaken under the leadership of His Excellency Retired Brigadier Julius Maada Bio, aim to enhance the operational capabilities and overall effectiveness of the RSLAF.

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The recruitment boost coincides with other significant developments within the RSLAF. As highlighted in a press statement by Major Yayah Brima, RSLAF Head of Media Operations, the African Union has contributed $10,000 worth of armored vehicles, combat jeeps, and ambulances, further strengthening the military’s capacity for global peacekeeping missions.

Beyond personnel expansion, Major-General Bangura has also overseen infrastructural improvements, including road reconstruction in military barracks, the installation of clean water boreholes, and the establishment of new facilities like a modern Squash House. Welfare provisions for military personnel have also been significantly enhanced under his leadership.

The focus on recruitment underscores Major-General Bangura’s commitment to building a stronger and more effective military force for Sierra Leone. This influx of new personnel, coupled with ongoing reforms and infrastructural developments, positions the RSLAF for enhanced national and regional stability.