Vice President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, on Wednesday 18 February 2026 joined President Julius Maada Bio at the 17th Armed Forces Day Parade held at the Julius Maada Bio Parade Square in Wilberforce, Freetown.
The ceremony brought together the First Lady, the Chief Minister, senior Government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, serving and retired military personnel, veterans, families of fallen heroes and citizens from across the country to commemorate the annual national event.
Held under the theme : “Rebuilding the RSLAF Through Strategic Transformation for Enhanced National Security and Development in Sierra Leone,” the parade celebrated the courage, discipline and dedication of the men and women of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), while reaffirming their role in safeguarding the nation’s peace, stability and democratic order.
Addressing the gathering, President Julius Maada Bio, who is also Minister of Defence and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, described Armed Forces Day as a solemn moment of honour, reflection and national pride. He paid tribute to officers and enlisted personnel for their bravery and sacrifice, noting that the peace and stability currently enjoyed by the country are secured through their vigilance and loyalty to the Constitution.
Reflecting on Sierra Leone’s civil war history, the President cautioned against any return to instability and firmly rejected unconstitutional changes of Government. He urged the armed forces to remain steadfast in their allegiance to democratic governance and constitutional rule.
A key highlight of the ceremony was the official launch of Sierra Leone’s first homegrown National Defence Policy and Strategy. President Bio said the new policy provides a clear framework for transforming the armed forces into a professional, disciplined and modern institution capable of responding effectively to emerging security challenges.
He outlined ongoing reforms within the military, including expanded peacekeeping commitments and improved welfare measures for personnel. The President announced approved salary increases for all ranks, effective April 2026, and reiterated his commitment to the passage of the long-awaited Veterans Bill.
President Bio also expressed appreciation to ECOWAS, the United Nations, the African Union and other international partners for their continued support in strengthening peace and security in Sierra Leone.
Observed annually on 18 February, Armed Forces Day honours military personnel, dead, retired and serving, who have defended the country, including those who served during the civil war and those currently deployed on peacekeeping and disaster-response missions at home and abroad. The celebration also incorporates the legacy of Myohaung Day, commemorating Sierra Leone’s 1945 victory in the Battle of Myohaung during the Second World War.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of awards to distinguished officers and personnel for exemplary service. Among those honoured was the Chief of Defence Staff, Lieutenant General Idara Bangura, who was recognized for his leadership and commitment to advancing reforms within the armed forces.
The parade ended on a high note, underscoring the shared commitment of President Bio and Vice President Juldeh Jalloh to building a professional, disciplined and constitutionally loyal armed force dedicated to safeguarding Sierra Leone’s peace, sovereignty and national development.
