By Hassan Osman Kargbo
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), Major General AI Bangura, Thursday, 27th March 2025, provided a comprehensive update on his first 100 days in office, detailing a series of significant reforms aimed at improving the welfare and operational effectiveness of the military.
Speaking to troops at the Sierra Leone Navy, Service Support Command, and the Third Infantry Brigade Headquarters, Major General Bangura emphasized the transformative changes that have already taken place and outlined ambitious plans for the future.
One of the most pivotal changes during his tenure has been the full realization of the Tri-Service model, a reform initiative initially directed by President Dr. Julius Maada Bio in February 2019. This reform has streamlined the military’s operational structure, ensuring that the Army, Navy, and Air Force are now independently functional under their respective service chiefs, thereby enhancing their operational readiness and responsiveness.
Addressing the welfare of personnel, Major General Bangura underscored his commitment to resolving the long-standing issues that have impacted the lives of RSLAF personnel. His administration has already implemented several welfare initiatives that have directly improved the living conditions of troops. Among these are the establishment of the RSLAF Bus Town Service, which facilitates troop transport, and an increase in the funeral purse for soldiers from NLe 820 to NLe 10,000. Additionally, the CDS has introduced a Personal Funeral Purse contribution, along with a provision of three bags of rice for bereaved families.
Furthermore, Major General Bangura announced improvements in marriage assistance for personnel, increasing the contribution from NLe 250 to NLe 5,000.
He also shared news of an increment in the Ration Cash Allowance (RCA) for soldiers in operational areas, raising it to NLe 50 per day, and increasing monthly running costs for battalions and formations to ensure smooth operational logistics.
In a move aimed at strengthening the military’s operational capabilities, Major General Bangura revealed plans to develop the 34 Military Hospital into the country’s primary medical facility for military personnel, as well as plans to expand the RSLAF’s agricultural and housing projects to include a focus on cashew nut and aquatic fish farming, as well as affordable housing developments for soldiers in all provincial towns.
The CDS also emphasized the importance of enhancing the Navy’s surveillance capabilities, mentioning plans for new naval bases and additional boats to protect Sierra Leone’s territorial waters.
The success of the reformation initiatives was further underscored by the recent donation of AU-funded equipment, which has brought RSLAF’s equipment readiness to 75 percent, positioning the armed forces for improved peace support operations.
Troops also expressed their gratitude for the immediate approval of a request for additional Troops Collection Vehicles to be deployed to Camp Junction, as well as for the construction of new canteens and sanitation facilities at various military locations.
Major General Bangura’s focus on the well-being of female personnel was highlighted by the approval of a bus service dedicated to transporting female soldiers from Waterloo to Defence Headquarters, an initiative he described as a necessary measure to ensure the dignity and respect of women in the RSLAF.
In his concluding remarks, Major General Bangura urged all personnel to remain loyal, professional, and prayerful for the success of the RSLAF and its leadership.
The address was met with a warm reception from the troops, who expressed their support for the ongoing reforms that are shaping the future of Sierra Leone’s military.
