By Precious Miracle Kargbo
In a bold and transformative move, Lieutenant General Amara Idara Bangura, Chief of Defence Staff of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), has unveiled a redefined mission for the military one that extends beyond traditional national defense to include the welfare, productivity, and economic empowerment of service personnel.
This new strategic direction seeks to improve the quality of life for military officers and their families while contributing meaningfully to the nation’s economic development.
Speaking at a recent press conference, Lieutenant General Bangura announced the creation of five independent corporate bodies that will operate outside the traditional military chain of command. These entities are tasked with managing initiatives in agriculture, road construction, and entrepreneurship aimed at diversifying the military’s role in national development.
One of the most significant undertakings is the development of a 1,000-hectare cashew farm in Port Loko. The RSLAF aims to make it the largest cashew-producing farm in Sierra Leone by 2026. In addition, the military is working towards achieving rice self-sufficiency, a move expected to enhance food security and provide sustainable livelihoods for military families.
The RSLAF is also expanding into infrastructure, actively bidding for road construction contracts. Key projects include feeder roads linking Mile 91 to Buedu and Koindu, as well as internal road developments within military barracks. These efforts are expected to improve connectivity and stimulate economic activity in surrounding communities.
Improving the welfare of military personnel is central to Lieutenant General Bangura’s leadership. With the strong backing of His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio, a series of reforms are underway. These include: Improved housing and living conditions, access to clean and safe drinking water, significant Increase in marriage contribution, from NLe250 to NLe5,000
These initiatives aim to boost morale and provide service members with the dignity and stability they deserve.
To further empower military families, plans are in motion to build shops near barracks, offering a source of additional income. A real estate initiative is also being developed to construct permanent housing units for officers, ensuring long-term security and stability.
This comprehensive approach reflects a visionary shift within the RSLAF one that balances military readiness with socioeconomic development. By focusing on both national defense and internal empowerment, the RSLAF is poised to become a more resilient, productive, and community-centered force.
As this ambitious transformation takes root, the impact is expected to extend beyond the barracks, contributing to Sierra Leone’s broader development and prosperity.