Sierra Leone Strengthens Defence Ties with Saudi Arabia.
The Deputy Minister of Defence (DMD) of Sierra Leone, Colonel (Retired) Muana Brima Massaquoi, led a high-level delegation to the Third Edition World Defence Show (WDS2026) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from 8 to 12 February 2026.
The event, held under the patronage of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman, and organised by the General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI) and the Ministry of Defence of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, brought together international defence institutions, security companies, and government delegations.
Honourable Massaquoi, accompanied by the Chief of Army Staff, Major General Kemoh Tewoh Sesay, and his Military Executive Assistant, Colonel John Zhoud Kailie, participated in the inaugural ceremony, officiated by the Minister of Defence of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Prince Khalid bin Salman.
During the five-day event, the delegation explored defence equipment and technology across land, sea, air, security, and space domains, with a focus on enhancing the capabilities of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF).
A highlight of the visit was a strategic counterpart meeting with the Deputy Minister of Defence of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, His Excellency Abdulrahman Muhammad bin Ayyaf, where discussions centred on strengthening bilateral defence cooperation and counter-terrorism efforts.
Honourable Massaquoi conveyed greetings from His Excellency the President of Sierra Leone, Brigadier General (Retired) Dr Julius Maada Bio, and expressed appreciation for Saudi Arabia's support, including Hajj Scholarships and the Islamic Military Counter-Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC) Strategic Initiative.
The DMD reiterated Sierra Leone's commitment to regional security, emphasising the need for coordinated efforts to combat terrorism, and formally requested the construction of the IMCTC Center of Excellence for Counter-Terrorism in Sierra Leone, to serve as a hub in West Africa, noting that it was the wishes of his boss, His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio.
In response, His Excellency Abdulrahman Muhammad bin Ayyaf welcomed the request and pledged to champion it in upcoming strategic meetings, highlighting the strong friendship and collaboration between Sierra Leone and Saudi Arabia.
The delegation's participation in WDS2026 underscored Sierra Leone's commitment to enhancing its defence capabilities and fostering international partnerships.
For enquiries:
Alhaji Abubakarr Bah,
Information Attaché
Embassy of Sierra Leone
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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