In a significant move to enhance maritime security in West Africa, the United Kingdom’s Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) Lyme Bay, along with personnel from 42 Commando Royal Marines, has arrived in Freetown, Sierra Leone.

The two-day visit, coordinated by the British High Commission in partnership with Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Defence, aims to strengthen the security relationship between the UK and Sierra Leone through a series of collaborative engagements.

The RFA Lyme Bay’s arrival marks the launch of a broader UK-led defense initiative, stretching from 2024 to 2029, which seeks to boost security cooperation and maritime capabilities across the West African region. Key areas of focus for this initiative include addressing regional security concerns like piracy, illegal unreported and unregulated fishing (IUUF), and the rise of violent extremist organizations (VEOs).

During their stay, UK military personnel will meet with Sierra Leone’s Armed Forces and maritime security stakeholders to exchange expertise and refine strategies for maritime defense. The engagements are designed to build operational capabilities, improve coordination, and promote best practices in safeguarding regional waters.

British High Commissioner to Sierra Leone, Josephine Gauld, emphasized the value of the collaboration, stating, “This visit underscores the strong and enduring partnership between the UK and Sierra Leone and will help strengthen our collective efforts to maintain regional stability.”

The RFA Lyme Bay’s deployment to Sierra Leone underscores the UK’s commitment to regional security and highlights the strength of UK-Sierra Leone defense cooperation aimed at fostering peace and stability in West Africa.