By: Elizabeth A Kaine
A delegation from the Michigan State National Guard, accompanied by the United States Ambassador to Sierra Leone and the Deputy Minister of Defense, paid a courtesy visit to President Dr. Julius Maada Bio at State House on September 11, 2024.
Deputy Minister of Defense, Colonel (Retired) Muana Brima Massaquoi, presented the delegation and thanked the President for receiving them. He revealed that the team is in the country to sign a letter of consent to a State Partnership Programme between the Government of Sierra Leone and the Michigan State National Guard.
Colonel (Retired) Massaquoi noted that the signing aims to establish an enduring partnership between the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces and the Michigan State National Guard. He stated that the program began in 2019 and expressed pleasure that it has come to fruition.
Major General Paul Rogers, head of the delegation, informed President Bio that many countries covet this partnership opportunity.
President Bio welcomed and thanked the delegation, stating that despite being the latest to establish the partnership program, Sierra Leone would be the most exciting. He emphasized his government’s focus on development and committed to consolidating gains made in the past six years.
The President noted that the program will improve and enhance the country’s security and stability, committing to both long-term and short-term plans.
