By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) officially launched its Strategic Development Plan (SDP) for 2025-2029, unveiling a comprehensive blueprint to guide its operations over the next four years. The event, held on Thursday, January 30, 2025, at the Foreign Service Academy in Tower Hill, Freetown, marked a significant shift in the SLP's approach to law enforcement, with a focus on community-oriented service.

In his keynote address, Minister of Internal Affairs, Rtd. AIG Morie Lengor (Esq.), commended Inspector General of Police Mr. William Fayia Sellu for his transformative leadership in enhancing the effectiveness and productivity of the Police Force. The Minister  expressed strong support for the SLP’s move towards a more participatory, service-driven model of policing, which prioritizes the needs of the community.

Inspector General William Fayia Sellu, in his remarks, detailed the SDP’s key objectives, which align with five strategic goals aimed at reshaping the SLP from a traditional force to a community-centered service. He highlighted the collaborative efforts with stakeholders such as the Government of Sierra Leone, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), UNFPA, Embassies and local communities. William Fayia Sellu also expressed gratitude to all parties involved in the plan’s development and reaffirmed the SLP’s commitment to community policing. He urged officers to continue their vital role in maintaining peace and stability across the nation.

UNDP Resident Representative, Frederick Hans Ampiah, spoke at the event, reiterating the UNDP’s ongoing support for the SLP in enhancing its security efforts. Frederick Hans Ampiah stressed the importance of policing in national development and applauded the leadership of Inspector General William Fayia Sellu for fostering effective partnerships. He confirmed that the UNDP would continue to assist the SLP in improving its operational standards and productivity.

AIG Esther Mary Kaintor-Dukuray, Director of Corporate Affairs, provided further insight into the SDP’s development process, noting that it was crafted with input from within the SLP and received financial support from UNDP.

The launch of the Strategic Development Plan 2025-2029 underscores the SLP’s vision for a more efficient, community-focused Police Force dedicated to ensuring peace, security, and progress for Sierra Leone.