The United States Embassy in Freetown, in partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard’s International Mobile Training Branch, concluded a two-week Outboard Motor Maintenance (OMM) Course for 20 members of Sierra Leone’s Navy and Police Marine Division.

The training, held from December 9 to 20, 2024, at the Naval Base in Murray Town, Freetown, focused on equipping maritime personnel with critical skills for maintaining boat engines. Delivered by experts from Virginia, USA, the program combined classroom instruction with hands-on exercises, aimed at enhancing operational readiness and the technical capabilities of Sierra Leone’s maritime forces.

A U.S. Embassy spokesperson emphasized the broader scope of this year’s collaboration, which also included training with the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) on managing maritime emergencies and combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing.

“This program demonstrates our commitment to strengthening maritime security and fostering professional development within Sierra Leone’s military and law enforcement sectors,” the spokesperson stated.

The initiative reflects the U.S. dedication to bolstering regional stability and security in West Africa by improving the technical expertise of Sierra Leone’s maritime personnel.

This latest effort underscores the growing partnership between the United States and Sierra Leone in addressing key challenges in maritime security and law enforcement.