Major General Amara Idara Bangura, Chief of Defense Staff

Expo Magazine

In 100 days as Chief of Defence    , Major Staff, Major General Amara Idara Bangura has redefined leadership in the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed F o r c e s (RSLAF), merging empathy with strategic i n n o v a t i o n .

Prioritizing soldier’s welfare, he overhauled healthcare, housing, and administrative systems, fostering pride and efficiency. His vision extends beyond security- integrating defence with national development through initiatives like veteran support programmes and military-led            agricultural projects to enhance food security. Transparency reforms have dismantled bureaucratic barriers, while partnerships with global allies have modernized training and            technology. Emphasizing dialogue major General Amara Idara Bangura’s inclusive approach has reshaped the RSLAF into a proactive force for socio-economic progress. “He doesn’t just command; he listens,” a colleague reflects, capturing his transformative ethos. By linking military strength to public trust and prosperity, Major General Bangura positions RSLAF as both a guardian of peace and a catalyst for Sierra Leone’s future; it proves that proper security, lies in empowering people as much as defending borders.

PERSONNEL WELFARE: The Bedrock of Operational Excellence:

From day one in office, Major General Bangura made it clear that the RSLAF’s strength lies in its people. To this end, his administration has fast-tracked reviews of critical welfare policies, including the Marriage Assistance Policy, Funeral Purse and the General Welfare Policy. These reforms aim to alleviate financial burden on personnel during pivotal life events. “A soldier’s peace of mind directly impacts their effectiveness on the frontlines,” Major General Bangura remarked during a policy review session.

The establishment of the Defence Enterprise Services (DES) further institutionalized welfare commitments. The DES is a visionary initiative poised to revolutionize the financial and operational framework of RSLAF.According to the Director DES Colonel RR Gbondo, “beyond bolstering RSLAF’s autonomy, DES is a catalyst for national development, leveraging military expertise in agriculture, engineering, and manufacturing, to stimulate local economies (Create jobs and skill-building opportunities for civilians); 6

upgrade infrastructure (Improve barracks,  roads,  and  utilities through Engineering Cooperation Company projects) and enhance food security (expand AFAU’s role in sustainable farming practices)”

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TRI-SERVICE STRUCTURE:

A NEW ERA OF

SPECIALIZATION: A landmark achievement of General Bangura’s first 100 days in office is the full operationalization of the TriService Structure, which divides the RSLAF into distinct Army, Navy, and Air Force branches. “This restructuring isn’t just administrative, it’s a strategic necessity,” said Dr. Sannoh, Deputy National Coordinator, ONS. “Sierra Leone’s security challenges demand specialized capabilities, from maritime piracy to cyber threats.” Service chiefs were appointed to lead each branch, supported by a Tri-Service Implementation Committee tasked with refining command frameworks. Early results include enhanced inter- service coordination during joint training of instructors for the upcoming training of cadets and recruits. The Chief of Naval Staff Captain (Navy) Lawrence Jabati, highlighted, “For the Navy, this collaboration has translated into bolstered maritime patrols, with increased fuel allocations ensuring sustained presence at sea to combat illegal fishing, smuggling, and piracy.”

According to the Chief of Air

Staff, Air Commodore Hassan Sei  Coomber,  “in  just  100 days, foundational steps have been taken: engagement with international partners to secure training programs, preliminary site assessments for new airbases in Lungi, Hastings and Gbangbatoke, and dialogues with allied nations to accelerate fleet modernization” These efforts signal the CDS’s commitment to transforming the Air Force into a force that not only deters threats but also safeguards livelihoods through medical evacuations, disaster relief, and environmental protection.”

MOBILITY AND

INFRASTRUCTURE:

Empowering the Force: Recognizing mobility as a force multiplier, Major General Bangura launched a fleet of 50 motorbikes for border patrols and intelligence operations, alongside a bus service easing troop transit in Freetown. “These bikes let us reach remote villages previously ignored by  security forces,” explained Lieutenant Colonel AB Kamara, the Commanding Officer 1 Infantry Battalion, stationed in Moa Barracks, Kailahun District. “Communities now trust us to act swiftly against smugglers.”

Infrastructure projects have been equally ambitious. The reconstruction of roads in Murray Town and Wilberforce Barracks, rehabilitation of Kabbah Hall, and upgrades to the Armed Forces Training Center (AFTC) signal a commitment to  operational readiness.  The AFTC’s new reality training modules, developed by the Commander Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), have drawn praise from             international    partners. “These tools prepare troops for complex scenarios without risking             lives,” remarked Colonel WT Pessima AFTC Commandant.

Maritime infrastructure also saw progress, with land acquired for a new Naval base along the Freetown Peninsula and Bonthe and      preliminary     assessments completed           for       airbases           in Lungi and Gbangbatok. “A modern Navy requires modern facilities,”      said      Chief   Petty Officer Alusine Jalloh. These projects will solidify our presence in key maritime zones.

MARITIME AND AIR POWER:

Securing Sierra Leone’s Frontiers:

General Bangura prioritized maritime security by increasing the Navy’s fuel allocation by 30%, ensuring uninterrupted patrols to combat illegal fishing and    trafficking.      “Before, bureaucratic delays grounded our vessels. Now, we’re at sea           daily,” said      Lieutenant Commander Mohamed Bangura. Enhanced patrols have already led to the seizure of three illegal fishing trawlers and the arrest of 14 suspects. For the Sierra Leone Air Force (SLAF), the CDS accelerated a 5-Year Strategic Plan (2025–2030) to transition from a ceremonial unit to an operational force. Partnerships with the Nigerian Air Force and the Egyptian Air Force could provide pilot training and fleet modernization. “Hopefully, drones and helicopters will soon conduct medical evacuations disaster relief,” shared Air Commodore HS Coomber, the

Chief of Air Staff.

AGRICULTURAL

DIVERSIFICATION:

Feeding the Nation, Sustaining The Force:

General Bangura’s agricultural reforms aim to bolster food security while generating revenue for the RSLAF. A Memorandum of Understanding with the

Ministry of Agriculture expanded rice farming from 140 to 500 hectares in Moyamba District, while 4,000 hectares of cashew farms in Port Loko, Tonkolili, and Kambia are expected to yield economic dividends. “This isn’t just subsistence farming- it’s a strategic industry,” remarked Lieutenant Colonel JG Kabba,

Commanding Officer of the Armed Forces Agricultural Unit. Fish farming initiatives at Bumpeh Gao Chiefdom, Bo District, covering 250 acres, will further diversify food sources. Colonel S Sevali, a project participant, noted, “This empowers soldiers to feed their families and earn extra income.”

INVESTING IN

INSTRUCTORS: Building Tomorrow’s Leaders:

Recognizing instructors as the backbone of military training, General Bangura mandated promotions for all instructors below the rank of Lance Corporal and increased their stipends. “This recognition has re-energized ourteam,” said Colonel AB Keita at the Peace Mission Training Center (PMTC). “We would be molding recruits and officer cadets into disciplined, tech-savvy soldiers.”

A VISION OF

COLLABORATION:

Major General Bangura attributes his early success to teamwork: “Our progress rests on the dedication of our personnel, the support of partners, and the resilience of Sierra Leoneans.” His leadership has galvanized a force poised to meet the challenges of the 21st Century. As Amin Kef (Ranger) of the

Calabash News concluded, “Major General Bangura’s collaborative approach has set a new standard for military leadership in Africa, blending innovation with inclusivity to strengthen national and regional security. His vision ensures that Sierra Leone’s defence forces are not just reactive, but proactive architects of peace in an evolving world.” By prioritizing unity and shared purpose, Major General Bangura’s strategy underscores that sustainable security thrives not in isolation but through the collective resolve of people and partnerships

Copyright –Published in Expo Magazine,  March-April 2025 Edition Vol.3, No.3, (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)