By Saidu Jalloh, Daily Scope Reporter
Benguema Barracks, Waterloo — December 11, 2025
In a significant milestone for the Republic of Sierra Leone, President Dr. Julius Maada Bio officially commissioned 1,017 newly trained soldiers and officer cadets into the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF). At the ceremony held at the Armed Forces Training Centre, President Bio declared an end to the era of military involvement in national politics, emphasizing that the loyalty of the armed forces must lie with the Constitution and the people they serve.
This graduating class includes 89 officer cadets and 949 enlisted soldiers, among them 212 female recruits and 15 female officer cadets. They completed a rigorous nine-month training program at both the Armed Forces Training Centre and the Peace Mission Training Centre. The program saw a significant reduction in numbers due to expulsions related to drug use and disciplinary issues.
In his address, President Bio shared his personal experiences as a cadet and soldier, commending the graduates for their discipline and resilience throughout their training. He expressed gratitude to the Chief of Defence Staff, training instructors, and families for their support and acknowledged the sacrifices of fallen soldiers, which he described as foundational to national peace and security.
Highlighting the achievements of female graduates, President Bio reaffirmed his government’s commitment to creating more opportunities for women in various military roles, including command and peacekeeping positions. He underscored the necessity for a highly trained, professional military capable of addressing contemporary security challenges such as terrorism, cyber threats, and regional instability.
The President also recognized the contributions of key defence partners, including ECOWAS, the African Union, and the United Nations, whose support has been crucial in enhancing the training and overall professionalism of the RSLAF.
Concluding his address, President Bio urged the new officers and soldiers to wear their uniforms with pride, serve honorably, and uphold the unity and stability of Sierra Leone. He reminded them that anyone can rise to great heights through dedication and hard work, reflecting on his own journey from cadet to President.
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