By Saidu Jalloh, Daily Scope Reporter
The Sierra Leone Correctional Service (SLCS), the Ministry of Defence, and the Sierra Leone Police have presented their budget proposals for the 2026 fiscal year, emphasizing plans for significant recruitment and technological advancements aimed at enhancing national security.
The budget presentations were made during ongoing discussions at the Ministry of Finance, highlighting a collective commitment to establishing “people-centered” security forces.
Commissioner Joseph John Senessie of the Sierra Leone Correctional Service led the submissions, requesting NLe 179,965,500. He highlighted recent achievements, including the recruitment of 1,000 officers and the construction of new correctional facilities in Kamakwie and Mongo Bendugu. For the upcoming year, the SLCS aims to build additional accommodations for officers, procure industrial kitchen equipment, and implement an integrated prison management system to enhance operational efficiency. Senessie stated that these initiatives are designed to improve security, expand rehabilitation programs, and contribute to government revenue.
Representing the Ministry of Defence and the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), Chief of Defence Staff Lieutenant-General Amara I. Bangura presented a budget estimate of NLe 412,000. He reaffirmed the ministry’s primary responsibility to protect the nation’s territorial integrity and its citizens. To achieve these goals, Lt. Gen. Bangura announced plans to recruit and train 1,500 new personnel. The ministry also aims to implement significant technological upgrades, including new communication systems, drones, and intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance (ISTAR) capabilities. Additionally, infrastructure improvements, such as refurbishing four barracks to enhance soldier accommodations, were underscored as critical priorities.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Allieu Turay completed the security sector presentations with the Sierra Leone Police’s budget proposal of NLe 576,534.3. The police force plans to recruit 1,000 new personnel and modernize its operational capabilities. Key initiatives include upgrading the Police Garment Factory for uniform production and renovating the Police Headquarters and other essential facilities. ACP Turay emphasized that these efforts aim to ensure the police remain “professional, accountable, and fully equipped to protect citizens.” The police force has projected a revenue target of NLe 2,943,755 for the fiscal year.
The budget proposals will now be reviewed as part of the broader government budget formulation process.
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