By Saidu Jalloh, D.S.
In a significant step towards enhanced defense collaboration, the United States Africa Command (US AFRICOM) has formalized a military support agreement with the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF). The Acquisition and Cross Servicing Agreement (ACSA) was signed on September 8, 2025, by Brigadier-General George TM Dietrich, the US AFRICOM Team Lead, and Deputy Minister of Defence Retired Colonel Muana Brima Massaquoi.
Brigadier-General Dietrich emphasized the agreement’s potential to bolster the two nations’ capacity for joint responses to humanitarian crises and natural disasters. “This partnership enables a more efficient exchange of vital supplies and logistical support,” he stated. The ACSA will facilitate various collaborative activities, including joint training exercises, port calls, and maritime operations. Dietrich also noted that the agreement would ensure that Sierra Leone’s military contributions are duly recognized through funding, reciprocal exchange, or in-kind support. “The US is proud to stand with Sierra Leone as a partner and friend, and we are committed to a long and successful relationship,” he added.
Sierra Leone’s Deputy Minister of Defence highlighted the agreement as a pivotal moment in strengthening bilateral defense cooperation. Retired Colonel Massaquoi remarked that it signifies Sierra Leone’s dedication to military collaboration, operational security, and mutual support. “This agreement not only enhances our logistical capabilities but also fortifies our collective security and stability,” he stated, acknowledging the importance of the partnership despite geographical distances.
The ACSA is a cornerstone of US AFRICOM’s global security partnerships, with similar agreements established with 132 countries worldwide, including 31 in Africa, marking Sierra Leone as the latest addition.
In a related development, a delegation from the West African Tax Administration Forum (WATAF) recently met with Sierra Leone’s Finance Minister, Ahmed Sheku Fantamadi Bangura. This visit comes as the country prepares to host its annual regional tax conference from September 15 to 19.
During the meeting, WATAF representative Jeneba Bangura expressed gratitude for the Minister’s warm reception and underscored the Forum’s role in enhancing tax administration to improve public service delivery and support regional development. Executive Director Jules Tapsoba emphasized the significance of hosting the AGM in Sierra Leone for the first time, highlighting the importance of tax administration in funding local development.
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