By Amin Kef (Ranger)
From December 9th to 20th, 2024, the United States Government, through its Office of Security Cooperation, conducted an Outboard Motor Maintenance (OMM) course for 20 personnel from Sierra Leone’s Navy and the Sierra Leone Police Marine Division. The training took place at the Naval Base in Murray Town, Freetown and was facilitated by a team from the U.S. Coast Guard’s International Mobile Training Branch, headquartered in Yorktown, Virginia.
The course combined classroom instruction and hands-on practical lessons, equipping participants with critical skills in maintaining various types of boat engines. This initiative aims to enhance the operational readiness of Sierra Leone’s maritime security forces by ensuring their patrol boats remain reliable and functional.
Captain (Navy) Abdul Karim Dumbuya, Western Naval Commander of Sierra Leone, emphasized the importance of such training programs. “Courses like the OMM are essential for equipping our Navy and Police personnel with the skills necessary to maintain our fleet and ensure operational readiness,” he stated.
Lieutenant Kyle Pope of the U.S. Coast Guard expressed appreciation for the collaboration. “We are grateful for the opportunity to exchange best practices and strengthen partnerships with the Sierra Leone Navy and Police,” he noted.
The OMM course highlights the vital role of preparedness in maritime security, a cornerstone for protecting Sierra Leone’s coastal waters. It addresses pressing challenges such as illegal fishing, transnational crime and maritime emergencies. By enhancing technical skills and promoting self-reliance, the training supports Sierra Leone’s ability to safeguard its maritime assets and bolster regional economic stability.
This initiative is part of a broader partnership between the United States and Sierra Leone to strengthen the nation’s maritime capabilities. Earlier this year, the U.S. Embassy in collaboration with the U.S. Coast Guard and the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) organized training programs focused on responding to maritime emergencies and combating illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing.
The U.S. Embassy in Freetown reaffirmed its commitment to this ongoing collaboration. “We look forward to continuing our partnership with the RSLAF and contributing to the professionalization of Sierra Leone’s military and maritime forces,” a spokesperson stated.
This joint effort underscores the shared commitment of the United States and Sierra Leone to ensuring maritime safety, security and economic prosperity in the region.
