AYV News, May 8, 2025
The Directorate of Science, Technology, and Innovation (DSTI) is spearheading a ground-breaking shift in how the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) manages financial support for its members. Through the digital transformation of the Armed Forces Endowment and Loan Scheme (AFELS), DSTI is introducing modern, tech-driven solutions to benefit over 11,000 service members.
Jasper Patrick Sembie, COO and Director of DSTI: “This project reflects our commitment to building digital systems that make government services faster, smarter, and more accessible for every citizen, including those who serve in uniform.”
AFELS, which provides vital loans and long-term financial benefits to active and retired personnel, is entering a new era, one defined by speed, transparency, and accessibility. During a recent project review at DSTI headquarters, the team unveiled the near-final version of the new digital platform, marking a major milestone in the journey toward smarter financial services for the military.
The platform will digitise every major AFELS function, from member registration and monthly contributions to loan disbursements and benefit claims. This digital infrastructure is designed to drastically reduce paperwork, streamline approval processes, and give users direct access to their financial information in real time.
Colonel Roland Gbondo, Director of AFELS and CEO of Defence Enterprise: “With this digital platform, we’re transforming how we serve our personnel – bringing efficiency, transparency, and trust to the heart of our financial support system.”
Key features of the platform include:
• Web and mobile access for convenient use
• Secure login and user authentication
• Document uploads and electronic recordkeeping
• Real-time loan and contribution tracking
• USSD functionality for those in low connectivity areas
By combining innovation with practical usability, DSTI is ensuring that no one is left behind in this transformation, not even those in remote or rural deployments.
This initiative is more than just a tech upgrade. It’s a statement of purpose, a commitment to dignified, efficient service delivery for those who serve the nation. As DSTI and its partners gear up for the official rollout, this project stands as a powerful example of how digital tools can solve real-world problems and improve lives.
For the RSLAF, this marks a shift toward a future-ready financial ecosystem, one where members can plan, save, and grow with confidence and ease.
