By Kelfala Kargbo
The Ministry of Defence and RSLAF has submitted a budget proposal of NLe2, 452. 7 Million to the Ministry of Finance to embark on the improvement of security and development in Sierra Leone.
In the policy briefing and budget hearing at the Ministry of Finance, the Director of Defence, Gilbert Cooper gave the opening remarks, highlighting the importance of security to national growth and development. Director Cooper stated that for the country to have an ‘ecosystem of peace and tranquillity’, government has a responsibility to invest in security.
The Chief of Defence Staff of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Lieutenant General Amara Idara Bangura made the budget presentation on behalf of the Ministry and RSLAF. Speaking at the hearing, Bangura revealed several challenges confronted by the military in the discharge of major function: protection of lives and property. He noted that a lack of enough funds to improve personnel’s welfare and logistical demands has incapacitated the military to fully safeguard citizens. “We don’t have the capabilities to fully protect lives and property,” Bangura revealed.
He continued that country is challenged to gain command in the sea, air and cyberspace, as external aggressors often take advantage of our vulnerability.
Bangura added that the constitution of Sierra Leone clearly states the mandate of the military for not only provide security but also contribute to the national development.
Speaking on the 2024 and First Half of 2025 revenue generation of the military, Director of Budget Military of Defence, Sheku Bio Contehsaid that the military generated the total of NLe1, 764, 120 Million in 2024, while generating NLe822, 281 million between January and August.
Bangura said that the FY2026 will also include generating revenues through the investments in Agriculture, Civil Construction and Engineering, Deliver Level III Hospital among others. As part of the military’s 2024 deliverables, Bangura stated that they were able to engage in the cultivation of 1000 Acres of Boli Land at Yoni Farm site, Kamajei Chiefdom, Moyamba District.
Civil Society groups and other stakeholders employed Ministry of Finance to consider approving the budget of the Ministry of Defence and RSLAF in order to provide sustainable security to the people of Sierra Leone.
