The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) has reaffirmed its commitment to constructive collaboration with the Bike Riders Union (BRU) and the Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority (SLRSA) to tackle road traffic management issues in the country. This pledge was made during the launch of a National Dialogue involving all three institutions, following a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on October 7, 2024.
The National Dialogue is set to take place at the Sierra Leone Peacekeeping and Law Enforcement Academy in Hastings, bringing together key stakeholders from the SLP, BRU, and SLRSA.
Mr. Mohamed A.T. Nabieu, the Public Relations Officer of the BRU, opened the proceedings by unveiling a new uniform that all union members will wear for better identification. He expressed the union’s appreciation for the timely dialogue and urged continued support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Nabieu highlighted the important role of bike riding in providing employment for many young people in Sierra Leone. He also called for ongoing training to transform the mindset of some members away from violent behaviors. “As a union, we must be law-abiding and report criminal activities. Riders need to adhere to road safety rules to prevent accidents,” he emphasized.
Madam Assanatu Judith Mansaray, the Director of Training for SLRSA, underscored the significance of dialogue in peacefully resolving differing opinions on road safety issues. She expressed hope that the dialogue would encourage all parties to adhere to the MoU and implement measures to minimize, if not eliminate, road accidents.
In his keynote address, Deputy Inspector General of Police Aiah Edward Samadia emphasized that the National Dialogue is a key component of the SLP’s strategy to transition from being a force to a service. He spoke about the Inspector General’s vision of leveraging the Local Needs Policing concept, which prioritizes community engagement. “This dialogue is a vital tool for our operation,” he said.
D/IGP Samadia highlighted the dual responsibility of the police to enforce laws while ensuring the safety and security of all citizens. He urged bike riders to comply fully with the MoU and to avoid actions that could tarnish the Union’s reputation. “Lawlessness is a significant concern that must be addressed to maintain a positive relationship among the SLP, BRU, and SLRSA,” he stated, adding that road safety officers should enforce the law with compassion.
Concluding the event, D/IGP Samadia launched the National Dialogue, encouraging all participants to foster and sustain positive relationships among the SLP, BRU, and SLRSA.
