By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The Sierra Leone Correctional Service (SLCS) has officially ushered in a new era of leadership, following a ceremonial handover between the outgoing Director General, Brigadier-General S.D. Ngaujah and his successor, Joseph John Senesie. The event, held on Friday, January 31, 2025, at the SLCS headquarters on Komo Kenyatta Road in Freetown, marks a pivotal moment in the institution's ongoing transformation.

As the ceremony unfolded, Brigadier-General Ngaujah formally signed out, passing the torch to Joseph John Senesie, whose appointment had been approved by Parliament the day prior. In his inaugural address, Joseph John Senesie expressed heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to serve in the capacity, recognizing the invaluable contributions of his predecessor in laying the foundation for the institution's progress over the past four years.

In a call for unity and collective action, Joseph John Senesie emphasized that the responsibility for the future of SLCS now lies with its entire workforce. He urged staff to set aside differences and work cohesively toward the greater goal of transforming the correctional system for the betterment of Sierra Leone. "Today marks a new beginning for us," he stated, "and it is our duty to reclaim and improve our institution through teamwork and dedication."

While committed to preserving the high standards set by Brigadier-General Ngaujah, Joseph John Senesie also outlined plans to introduce new initiatives aimed at enhancing the operational and rehabilitative capacity of SLCS. His leadership, he said, would be measured not just by his decisions, but by the collective efforts of all personnel working toward excellence.

Reflecting on his own tenure, Brigadier-General Ngaujah recalled the strides made under his leadership in enhancing security and operational efficiency within the correctional system. He highlighted the creation of vital systems, policies and procedures and underscored the importance of professionalism and teamwork in ensuring the institution’s continued success. "Leadership is divinely ordained and ever-changing," Brigadier-General Ngaujah maintained. "Focus on the mission, not the disagreements. Leadership roles may be temporary, but legacies endure."

The ceremony followed the parliamentary approval of Joseph John Senesie and Susan Baby Coker as Director General and Deputy Director General, respectively, following President Julius Maada Bio’s endorsement. During the parliamentary session on January 30, 2025, MPs praised their extensive experience in prison management and criminal justice reform, which they viewed as integral to the Government's commitment to rehabilitating and modernizing the country's correctional system.

With this new leadership in place, the SLCS embarks on a renewed mission of rehabilitation, transformation and modernization, signaling a united commitment to overcoming challenges and creating a more humane and effective correctional system.