President Brigadier (Rtd.) Julius Maada Bio, Commander-in-Chief of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), has announced a 25 percent salary increase for all ranks of the armed forces, effective April 2026.
The President made the announcement during the 17th Armed Forces Day celebrations, where he also officially launched Sierra Leone’s first home-grown National Defence Policy and Strategy. The new policy framework is aligned with national security priorities, development objectives and the Government’s Big Five Game Changers agenda.
Addressing the ceremony under the theme: “Rebuilding the RSLAF through Strategic Transformation for Enhanced National Security and Development in Sierra Leone,” President Bio said the salary increment reflects Government’s commitment to improving the welfare and morale of military personnel. He commended officers, men and women of the armed forces for their dedication and service to the nation.
In a move aimed at repositioning the military as an active contributor to national development, the President unveiled the establishment of Defence Enterprise Services. The initiative includes an Endowment and Loan Scheme for service personnel and the allocation of 10,000 acres of agricultural land to support production under the Feed Salone agenda.
President Bio also announced the approval for the operationalization of Explosive Management Services to support activities in the mining sector. In addition, he disclosed the creation of an Engineering Corporation within the RSLAF to strengthen national infrastructure delivery.
Among priority projects highlighted were the 52.3-kilometre Mile 91–Rosul Junction feeder road, a 1.5-kilometre paved road at the Armed Forces Training Centre and a 27-kilometre paved road in Kambia District. The President said those projects demonstrate the armed forces’ expanding role in supporting national development beyond traditional security functions.
On gender inclusion, President Bio revealed that female representation in the RSLAF has increased to 14.7 percent, up from single-digit levels at the start of his administration. He praised the progress made and called for sustained recruitment and promotion of women within the ranks to meet the statutory minimum 30 percent quota in line with the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act of 2022.
Reaffirming his commitment to veterans’ welfare, the President pledged the swift passage of the Military Veterans Bill currently before Parliament and directed that the legislative process be concluded by May 2026.
The ceremony was marked by military tradition, including the presentation of new Presidential and Regimental Colours, regarded as the highest symbols of honour for the Services, Formations and Units of the RSLAF.
President Bio concluded by noting that while the nation’s past lessons have been painful, the present demands responsibility and the future inspires confidence. He expressed optimism that Sierra Leone will remain peaceful, democratic and secure for generations to come.
The event also featured the presentation of honours and awards to distinguished guests and serving officers in recognition of exemplary service.
