By Laurina B. Lormia
The President of Sierra Leone, Julius Maada Bio has cautioned the gallant men and women of the Armed Forces of Liberia to be a shield that protects, rather than a sword that divides.
President Bio made the disclosure on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, during the 68th Armed Forces Day celebration held at the Barclay Training Center(BTC)in Monrovia, emphasizing the importance of national unity in safeguarding the country’s hard-earned peace and stability.
The celebration highlighted the vital role of the Armed Forces in maintaining national peace and security, while emphasizing the importance of collaboration among key stakeholders to foster stability and development in the country.
The event, held under the theme “Sustaining Peace and Security through Stakeholders’ Engagement: The Role of the Armed Forces,” brought together government officials, members of the diplomatic and counselor corps, security sector representatives, civil society organizations, and international partners.
Delivering his keynote address, President Bio commended Liberia for its progress since the end of its civil conflict, noting that the resilience of the Liberian people is an inspiration to the West African region.
According to him, the military is not an isolated entity, but an integral part of the nation’s fabric. Through peacekeeping missions, humanitarian assistance, disaster response, and community service, they exemplify the evolving role of the armed forces in a democratic society.
President Bio added that, Sierra Leone has embraced this approach. “Our armed forces continue to engage with national and international stakeholders to uphold peace, support economic recovery, and contribute to regional and economic stability in Economic Community of West African States(ECOWAS), and the African Union,” he said.
He mentioned that, the threats to peace and security in our region are evolving, encompassing transnational crimes, cyber threats, climate-related conflicts, and economic disparities. To address these challenges effectively, we must strengthen civil-military relations and enhance our capacity for coordinated responses.
He stated that, the role of the armed forces is both timely and relevant, reflecting the essence of our shared aspirations as nations that have endured the trials and tribulations of conflict, emerged stronger, and continue to strengthen institutions that safeguard democracy, stability, and progress.
“Nothing matters more than protecting the territorial integrity of our beloved country and supporting the vital mission of our navy. Adding, that is why I am here because my navy needed my support. For me, today’s event is a powerful reminder of this immense responsibility, not just for our navy but also for our air force. It highlights the importance of sustainable peace and security, achieved through meaningful stakeholder engagement,” he maintained.
“Beyond the conventional role of defending territorial integrity, modern military institutions play a pivotal role in fostering peace, responding to emergencies, supporting development initiatives, and strengthening democratic governance, with that, our nations have learned that sustainable peace is not merely the absence of war, but the presence of justice,” President Bio narrated.
“Liberia and Sierra Leone share a history that underscores the importance of sustainable peace and security a history that binds us in our commitment to a peaceful future. “We have witnessed firsthand the devastating consequences of conflict, as well as the transformative power of resilience, reconciliation, and rebuilding,” he said.
“Your role is vital in our collective pursuit of peace and security, not only in Liberia but across the sub-region. Peace and security cannot be maintained by the military alone; it requires a concerted effort involving political leaders, security institutions, community organizations, and ordinary citizens,” he noted.
“Engaging stakeholders’ fosters inclusiveness, while trust and cooperation are essential pillars of stability. The Armed Forces of Liberia have undoubtedly demonstrated a commendable commitment to collaborating with various sectors of society,” he added.
“Sustainable peace and security can only be achieved through the steadfast commitment of professional and disciplined armed forces and army that serves not only as a protector of national sovereignty but also as a pillar of democratic governance. In a world where democracy is constantly challenged by forces of division, conflict, and instability, the role of the military is critical,” he stressed.
He charged the gallant men and women of the Armed Forces of Liberia to stand firm as guardians of the democratic cause, upholding the Constitution and the democratic institutions that form the foundation of this great nation. “History has shown that when the military aligns with democratic values, nations thrive and when it deviates, society falters,” President Bio emphasized.
Making remarks, the Minister of National Defense, Brigadier general Geraldine Janet George (Rtd), underscored the importance of the armed forces day in recognizing the achievements of the AFL, while reflecting on the challenges faced by the military.
She praised the contributions of the AFL, which continues to play an essential role in international peacekeeping operations, including in countries such as the Philippines, Sudan, and South Sudan, as part of Liberia’s commitment to global peace and stability.
The Minister noted significant strides made in 2024, including government support for military infrastructure improvements. “These efforts have focused on the renovation of key military barracks such as Camp Jones in Kakata-Magibi County, and Camp Whisnat, in Grand Gedeh County which is nearing completion.
She stated that, the government allocated US$900,000 to further enhance the Ministry of National Defense’s infrastructure, alongside ongoing rehabilitation projects at the Barclay Training Center (BTC).
“Liberia’s Coast Guard has also expanded its operations, with offshore patrols now reaching 200 nautical miles. This expansion is supported by international partnerships with nations like China, Egypt and other countries, which have assisted with training and facility development, including the creation of a reference laboratory at the 14 Military Hospital and the upcoming Armed Forces of Liberia Mental Wellness Center,” she noted.
Despite these achievements, the Minister acknowledged the ongoing challenges, such as limited resources, operational inefficiencies, and inadequate housing for military personnel.
“Coastal erosion has also presented environmental challenges, requiring sustainable defense strategies. Personnel welfare, including improvements in accommodation, healthcare, and recreational facilities, remain critical priorities for the government,” she stressed.
Minister George, emphasized plans to increase financial support for infrastructure and logistics, enhance recruitment, and expand specialized training in partnership with international allies. “There are also efforts to improve gender inclusivity within the AFL, reflecting a broader commitment to equal representation and empowerment in the military,” she added.
She however, urged Liberians and international partners to continue supporting the Armed Forces of Liberia, highlighting the importance of collective efforts to build a stronger, more secured nation. She reiterated the government’s dedication to prioritizing the resources necessary for the military to fulfill its mission effectively.