By George M.O. Williams
Freetown, January 27, 2026: The Women in Security Sector Sierra Leone (WISS-SL) has elected Deputy Director General of the Sierra Leone Correctional Service, (DDG) Susan B. Koker as its new president, marking a significant milestone in advancing women’s leadership and coordination across the country’s security institutions.
Koker will be supported by Deputy Officer Bintu Fatmata Kamara Esq. of the National Fire Force (NFF), elected Vice President, and Second Captain Hawanatu Sandy of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), who will serve as Secretary General.
WISS-SL aims to strengthen collaboration among women in Sierra Leone’s security sector and to promote gender mainstreaming across Mano River Union countries. Its mission is to unite women serving in security institutions to act collectively for the common good and to advance the institutions they represent.
Membership of WISS-SL spans a wide range of institutions, including the Office of National Security (ONS), Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), Sierra Leone Police (SLP), Immigration Department, Sierra Leone Correctional Service (SLCS), National Fire Force (NFF), private security companies, and civil society organisations such as TEEDWOGA (formerly TEDEWOSIL).
In her victory speech, DDG Susan B. Koker expressed gratitude and humility, describing the election as a collective triumph for women in the security sector.
“This victory is not mine alone. It belongs to every woman who has worn a uniform with pride, stood guard when duty called, and balanced service to the nation with service to family,” she said.
She paid tribute to the pioneers of the association, mentors, institutional heads, and supporters, including male colleagues who have championed women’s advancement in the sector.
Koker pledged to focus her leadership on professionalism, capacity building, mentorship, and the welfare of women across all security institutions. She also committed to amplifying women’s voices and ensuring their meaningful participation in decision-making processes.
“We will stand for unity across ranks and services, integrity, discipline, and excellence,” she affirmed, adding that WISS-SL would work towards a Sierra Leone where women in the security sector are respected, empowered, and supported to serve with dignity.