AYV News, July 10, 2025
Taking a major step to enhance maritime security and promote unity within its ranks, the Sierra Leone Navy (SLN) hosted a Graduation Ceremony for newly rebadged personnel and celebrated the official reopening of its refurbished canteen at the Murray Town Naval Headquarters in Freetown.
The event, held on Friday 4th July 2025, marked the successful completion of induction training for two sets of Officers and Ratings and reaffirmed the Navy’s commitment to safeguarding Sierra Leone’s territorial waters, strengthening regional security in the Gulf of Guinea and upholding national defense.
The graduation signified the formal transition of personnel into their new roles and ranks within the SLN. It emphasized the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces’ (RSLAF) core values: discipline, loyalty, service and sacrifice.
Delivering the welcome remarks, Commandant of the Western Naval Command, Captain (Navy) A.K. Dumbuya, expressed pride in witnessing the rebadging and graduation of a new cohort of dedicated men and women into the esteemed ranks of the Navy.
“This ceremony marks the end of months of rigorous training and the beginning of a lifelong journey of service to the nation,” he said. He lauded the instructors and supporting staff for shaping the graduates into capable sailors and extended gratitude to the families whose unwavering support made the accomplishment possible.
Captain A.K. Dumbuya emphasized that the rebadging was not merely a change in uniform but a testament to growth, professionalism and renewed commitment to national service.
Lieutenant Commander R.B. Hindowa, Executive Officer of the Western Naval Command and Officer Commanding the Naval Trades School, presented a detailed training overview. He reported that a total of 38 sailors, including nine Officers and twelve female participants, completed training across two batches. The first group of 11 personnel trained from February to March 2025 and the second group of 27 completed training between April and June 2025.
The training program encompassed a wide range of subjects such as Seamanship, Navigation, International Maritime Law, Maritime Interdiction Operations, Naval Engineering and Leadership. Physical training, emergency drills and team-building exercises were also integral components.
Highlighting gender inclusivity, Lieutenant Commander R.B. Hindowa noted that 32% of the graduates were women, reflecting the SLN’s commitment to diversity and the advancement of women in national defense.
“You have been equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to serve your country with honour and pride,” he encouraged the graduates. “Let this be the beginning of a distinguished career.”
Representing the Chief of Naval Staff, Captain (Navy) A.H. Bengeh, Commandant of the Southern Naval Command, congratulated the graduates and praised the induction training’s role in reinforcing national maritime sovereignty.
“Your transition into the Navy is a significant personal and institutional achievement. You are now entrusted with protecting Sierra Leone’s maritime interests and ensuring peace and stability within our waters,” he said.
Captain A.H. Bengeh also highlighted the reopening of the Navy’s canteen as a symbol of community and unity within the naval family. “This facility is a vital space for camaraderie and well-being. It reinforces our commitment to supporting our personnel both professionally and socially,” he stated.
Delivering the keynote address, the Chief of General Staff, Major General S.D.T. Ngaujah, described the graduation and canteen reopening as symbolic milestones in the Navy’s ongoing transformation under the Tri-Service model – Army, Navy and Air Force.
He commended the graduates for their dedication and perseverance over the past six to eight weeks and encouraged them to embrace their new responsibilities with courage and integrity.
“As you don your new insignia, remember that you are not only embracing a new title, but also a mantle of responsibility to protect our seas and contribute to regional maritime security,” he said.
He urged the new sailors to prioritize continuous learning and development and remain dedicated to the values of integrity, teamwork and service. The Chief of General Staff officially reopened the canteen by cutting the ceremonial ribbon and donated $100 to support its operations.
Lieutenant Navy S. Tunkara delivered the vote of thanks on behalf of the graduates. He expressed gratitude to God, the Ministry of Defence, the Chief of Naval Staff and all instructors who contributed to the successful completion of their training.
“To our instructors, your mentorship and guidance have been invaluable. We are proud to carry forward the knowledge and discipline instilled in us,” he said, vowing to uphold the honour and standards of the Sierra Leone Navy.
The event concluded with the presentation of special awards to outstanding instructors as a token of appreciation. The newly reopened canteen is expected to serve as a hub for morale, support and unity among naval personnel.
While graduates prepare to take on their new duties, the ceremony served as a powerful reminder of the Navy’s enduring commitment to national service, maritime protection and the development of a professional and inclusive force.
