By Alhassan Jalloh
The U.S. Embassy recently collaborated with the Republic of Sierra Leone Air Force (SLAF) on a crucial engagement focused on developing the SLAF’s capabilities and organizational structure. A team from the U.S. Air Forces in Europe-Air Forces Africa (USAFE-AFAFRICA) traveled to Sierra Leone to share expertise through a one-week exchange.
Subject matter experts from the USAFE-AFAFRICA Manpower, Organization, and Resources Division shared knowledge to support overall air force development. The collaborative effort was centered on creating a plan to expand SLAF capabilities with the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) tri-service construct. This expansion aims to enhance the SLAF’s ability to provide deterrence, ensure territorial integrity, and resolve conflicts to protect vital national interests. The exchange focused on total air force development, personnel development, and capability development.
The American team provided briefings and facilitated discussions on topics including manpower, database management, individual career progression, strategic planning, air force doctrine, process development, and manning formulas. The SLAF and Brigadier General David Sahr Ngaujah, RSLAF Chief of General Staff, expressed a strong interest in future engagements to further explore U.S. Air Force best practices in evaluations, assignments, and training.
The U.S. Government is commitment to partnering with Sierra Leone to support the development of a professional and effective air force and continue overall collaborations to ensure a safe and stable region.
