By Mahamood Fofana
The President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio, has unveiled a sweeping reform agenda aimed at repositioning the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) as a modern, professional, and development-oriented military institution. The announcement was made during the 17th Armed Forces Day Celebration held on 18th February 2026 at the Hockey Pitch in Freetown.
In a keynote address that underscored his administration’s strategic commitment to security sector transformation, President Bio declared a 25 percent salary increment for RSLAF personnel. The adjustment, he explained, is in fulfilment of the recommendations of the Armed Forces Pay Review Board and is intended to enhance morale, professionalism, and operational efficiency within the ranks. He emphasized that strengthening the armed forces goes beyond safeguarding national sovereignty; it is equally central to advancing national development objectives.
The President further disclosed the approval for the establishment of a Defence Enterprise Service, a structured initiative designed to promote financial sustainability and welfare support for military personnel. The scheme will incorporate an endowment and loan facility aimed at improving access to credit and economic empowerment opportunities for officers and enlisted personnel alike. According to President Bio, the move represents a deliberate effort to professionalize the force while ensuring that those who serve the nation are not left economically vulnerable.
Aligning military reform with his government’s flagship “Feed Salone” agricultural initiative, the President announced the allocation of 10,000 acres of land to the RSLAF for agricultural production. The initiative is expected to enhance food security, promote self-reliance within the force, and contribute to national agricultural output. Additionally, he referenced plans for strengthened management services within the mining sector and the establishment of an engineering corporation to support national development projects.
On infrastructure, President Bio highlighted ongoing and completed road projects executed with military involvement. These include the 52.3-kilometre Mine 91 feeder road, a 1.5-kilometre paved road at the Armed Forces Training Centre, and a 27-kilometre paved road in Kambia District. He noted that such projects reflect the evolving role of the armed forces as a key partner in national infrastructure expansion.
The President also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to gender inclusion within the military. Referencing the enactment of the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act of 2022, which has been widely commended by advocacy groups, he reiterated the government’s pledge to achieve a 30 percent quota for women in the armed forces. He revealed that female representation within the RSLAF has risen to 14.7 percent during his tenure, marking measurable progress toward inclusivity.
In concluding his address, President Bio urged Parliament to expedite the passage of the Military Veterans Bill currently before the House, with completion anticipated in May this year. He paid tribute to fallen heroes who sacrificed their lives in service to the nation and called on serving personnel to uphold discipline and professionalism.
“It is time,” the President declared, “to continue defending the integrity and honour of the Armed Forces, just as they have steadfastly defended this nation.”
