The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) has advanced its digital transformation agenda with the distribution of 39 laptop computers to Local Unit Commanders (LUCs) across the country, marking a major step toward modernizing policing and improving service delivery through technology.
The laptops were officially handed over by the Inspector General of Police (IGP), William Fayia Sellu, during the closing ceremony of a two-day workshop for Local Unit Commanders held at Police Headquarters in Kingtom. The initiative forms part of the Sierra Leone Police Strategic Development Plan (SDP) 2025–2029 and supports Goal Four, Intervention Five of the plan, which focuses on embracing innovation and digital tools to strengthen policing. It also aligns with President Julius Maada Bio’s Technology and Infrastructure Game Changer agenda.
The initiative is expected to usher in a paperless administrative system within the Sierra Leone Police, with divisional commanders now required to conduct official correspondence electronically through a digitally connected network. Once integrated into the national fiber optic infrastructure, the laptops will facilitate seamless communication between Police Headquarters and divisional commands, significantly reducing reliance on paper-based administrative processes. Traditional stationery will primarily be reserved for operational functions such as statement-taking and physical record-keeping.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, IGP Sellu described the distribution of the laptops as a landmark achievement in the force’s ongoing reform and modernization efforts. He said the computers were procured to improve operational efficiency, strengthen communication, and enhance service delivery across all police divisions.
“The computers are intended to enhance your performance and improve the manner in which you discharge your responsibilities as Local Unit Commanders,” the IGP stated.
He further disclosed that arrangements are already underway to connect all the laptops to the national fiber optic network to provide uninterrupted internet access for commanders nationwide. According to him, the digital platform will enable faster communication, improve records management, and support informed decision-making at both divisional and national levels.
IGP Sellu encouraged the commanders to fully utilize the technology and apply the knowledge gained during the workshop to improve policing within their respective divisions.
“As you return to your divisions, much is expected from each one of you. You must add value to the Sierra Leone Police by applying the knowledge you have gained and embracing this new digital system to improve service delivery,” he urged.
He also reminded the commanders that effective leadership demands responsibility and accountability, emphasizing that the successful implementation of the Strategic Development Plan depends largely on the commitment of Local Unit Commanders to execute its objectives at the grassroots level.
The digital transformation initiative is expected to improve operational efficiency, minimize administrative delays, strengthen data management systems, and promote better coordination among police divisions across the country.
The distribution of the laptops has been widely regarded as another significant milestone in the Sierra Leone Police’s ongoing transition from a traditional law enforcement institution to a modern, technology-driven organization capable of responding effectively to contemporary policing challenges.
The initiative also reinforces IGP William Fayia Sellu’s reform agenda and reflects the Sierra Leone Police’s commitment to leveraging digital technology to improve institutional efficiency, accountability, and the delivery of quality policing services in line with the Government’s broader digital transformation vision.
