By Saidu Jalloh, Daily Scope Reporter
Julius Maada Bio Parade Square, Wilberforce, Freetown, February 18, 2026 President Brigadier (Rtd.) Julius Maada Bio, Commander-in-Chief of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), has announced a substantial 25% salary increase for all personnel in the armed forces, effective April 2026. The announcement coincided with the 17th Armed Forces Day celebrations and included the launch of the country’s inaugural National Defence Policy and Strategy, designed to align with national security priorities and the government’s Big Five Game Changers agenda.
Addressing the theme “Rebuilding the RSLAF through Strategic Transformation for Enhanced National Security and Development,” President Bio revealed the creation of Defence Enterprise Services, aimed at transforming the RSLAF into a proactive participant in national development. This initiative features an Endowment and Loan Scheme for service members and the allocation of 10,000 acres of agricultural land to support projects under the Feed Salone initiative.
Additionally, President Bio announced the establishment of Explosive Management Services to bolster the mining sector, alongside the creation of an Engineering Corporation to improve infrastructure development. Key infrastructure projects presented include the 52.3-kilometre Mile 91–Rosul Junction feeder road, a 1.5-kilometre paved road at the Armed Forces Training Centre, and a 27-kilometre paved road in Kambia District.
The President highlighted the improvement in female representation within the RSLAF, which has increased to 14.7% from previously low levels. He emphasized the importance of continued recruitment efforts and enhancing female leadership roles to meet the statutory 30% quota established by the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act of 2022.
Reaffirming his commitment to veterans, President Bio pledged to expedite the passage of the Military Veterans Bill currently under consideration in Parliament, urging its completion by May 2026.
In a ceremony steeped in military tradition, President Bio presented new Presidential and Regimental Colours, which serve as the highest symbols of honor for the Services, Formations, and Units of the RSLAF.
Closing his address, he commended the dedication and service of all RSLAF personnel, acknowledging past challenges while expressing optimism for a peaceful and democratic future for Sierra Leone, worth defending for generations to come. The event also featured the presentation of honors and awards to distinguished guests and serving officers.
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