AYV News, November 14, 2024
An African Union (AU) Assessment Team visited Police Headquarters in Freetown to evaluate the operational readiness of Sierra Leone’s sixth Formed Police Unit (FPU-6) ahead of its deployment to the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS).
The AU team, led by Assistant Commissioner of Police,Emmanuel Lithakong Ntpaba, met with Inspector General of Police (IGP), William Fayia Sellu and highlighted the assessment’s importance in ensuring both individual and collective preparedness for the mission.
Ntpaba noted that the assessment would be conducted in two phases, beginning with a review of individual competencies, including language proficiency, driving skills, shooting accuracy, and medical qualifications, in line with FPU Standard Operating Procedures.
“The first phase will cover individual qualifications,” explained Ntpaba, “with the second phase focusing on the unit’s overall operational capabilities.”
Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Lillian Okembo expressed gratitude to IGP Sellu for his leadership, as well as to ATMIS Police Commissioner AIG Hailary Sao Kanu, lauding Sierra Leone’s contributions to international peacekeeping.
Okembo emphasized Sierra Leone’s distinction in producing two consecutive ATMIS police commissioners recognized for their excellence.
IGP Sellu warmly welcomed the AU team, reflecting on Sierra Leone’s role in global peacekeeping, noting the deployment of over 17,500 peacekeepers during the nation’s civil war. He stated that this commitment honors past sacrifices while reinforcing Sierra Leone’s dedication to global peace.
He also acknowledged the value of prior FPU missions, noting the skills gained abroad have strengthened the force’s domestic capabilities. While acknowledging that not all evaluated personnel will deploy, he praised the timing and importance of the AU assessment.
The meeting concluded with a group photograph and the presentation of a souvenir to IGP Sellu by UN AU Police Reform Advisor Alex M. Dili, symbolizing ongoing cooperation between Sierra Leone and the African Union.
