By Sallieu S. Kanu
Freetown, February 18, 2026: In a landmark move to strengthen Sierra Leone’s military and improve the welfare of service personnel, President Brigadier (Rtd.) Julius Maada Bio, Commander-in-Chief of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), has announced a 25% salary increase for all ranks, effective April 2026.
The announcement was made during the 17th Armed Forces Day celebrations at Julius Maada Bio Parade Square, Wilberforce, where the President also launched Sierra Leone’s first National Defence Policy and Strategy. The policy, developed locally, aligns with national security priorities, development objectives, and the government’s Big Five Game Changers agenda.
Speaking on the theme “Rebuilding the RSLAF through Strategic Transformation for Enhanced National Security and Development in Sierra Leone,” President Bio outlined several initiatives:
- Defence Enterprise Services to reposition the military as a contributor to national development.
- An Endowment and Loan Scheme for personnel.
- Allocation of 10,000 acres of agricultural land to support the Feed Salone agenda.
- Operationalisation of Explosive Management Services for the mining sector.
- Creation of an Engineering Corporation to strengthen infrastructure delivery, including key road projects in Mile 91, Kambia, and at the Armed Forces Training Centre.
Gender Inclusion and Veterans’ Welfare
President Bio highlighted progress in gender representation, noting that female participation in the RSLAF has risen to 14.7%, up from single-digit levels at the start of his administration. He called for sustained recruitment and leadership opportunities to reach the statutory 30% quota under the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act of 2022.
On veterans’ welfare, he pledged swift passage of the Military Veterans Bill, directing Parliament to conclude the process by May 2026.
In a ceremony steeped in military tradition, President Bio presented new Presidential and Regimental Colours, the highest symbols of honour for the Services, Formations, and Units of the RSLAF. He commended officers, men, and women of the armed forces for their dedication, stressing that while past lessons have been painful, the future inspires confidence in Sierra Leone’s peace, democracy, and resilience.
The occasion also featured the presentation of honours and awards to distinguished guests and serving officers.