By Josephine Sesay
As the Christmas season approaches, the Minister of Transport and Aviation, Honorable Alhaji Fanday Turay, has extended humanitarian support to former members of the Sierra Leone Armed Forces, providing them with food items and cash assistance to help ease their burdens during the festive period.
The support package, which included 25-kilogram bags of rice and cash, was distributed to ex-soldiers at two separate locations: Benguema in the Western Area Rural and the Youyi Building in Freetown, which catered for beneficiaries from the Western Area Urban.
Speaking during the distribution exercise, Minister Turay, himself a former soldier, said the initiative is aimed at supporting retired and former military personnel, particularly during festive and religious periods. He noted that the gesture is not a one-off event but part of an annual tradition, which is also extended during the holy month of Ramadan.
According to the Minister, the assistance is a way of giving back to men and women who once served the nation and ensuring they are not forgotten during times of celebration. He emphasized the importance of solidarity and compassion, especially in the face of current economic challenges.
Beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the timely intervention, describing it as a welcome relief amid rising living costs and economic difficulties. Many said the rice and cash support would help them and their families celebrate Christmas with dignity.
Observers say the initiative underscores ongoing efforts by government officials to maintain strong ties with former members of the armed forces and to address their welfare needs. They added that such gestures contribute to social cohesion and reaffirm the government’s commitment to supporting those who once dedicated their lives to national service.
The distribution exercise was conducted peacefully and was well received by all beneficiaries, marking another step in efforts to support vulnerable groups during the festive season.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Wednesday, 17th December 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
