The Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) has officially begun the recruitment of one thousand Sierra Leoneans as part of efforts to strengthen national defence and security.
The recruitment exercise started on Thursday, 22 January 2026, and is open to qualified Sierra Leonean citizens across the country. Military authorities say the move is aimed at improving manpower, boosting operational readiness, and ensuring the armed forces remain capable of responding to both internal and external security challenges.
Application Timeline
Applications open: Thursday, 22 January 2026
Final submission deadline: Wednesday, 4 February 2026
Final selection and police clearance process begins: 27 February 2026
General Requirements
Applicants must meet the following conditions:
Must be a natural-born Sierra Leonean
Must possess a valid National Identification Card
Must have no criminal record and provide police clearance during final selection
Must be medically fit and physically fit
Must meet the required height standard
Men: at least 5 feet 5 inches
Women: at least 5 feet 3 inches
Must be of good conduct
Must submit a letter of recommendation from a recognized community, religious, or traditional leader. Serving soldiers must provide a recommendation from their Unit Commander.
Categories of Recruitment
The recruitment covers the following categories:
Direct Entry Cadets (Non-Specialists)
Direct Entry Cadets (Specialists)
Direct Entry Cadets (Serving Soldiers)
Direct Entry Recruits (Non-Tradesmen)
Direct Entry Recruits (Tradesmen)
Category-Specific Criteria (Highlights)
Direct Entry Cadets (Non-Specialists)
Education: First Degree with transcript, or Undergraduate Certificate or Statement of Result
Age: 18 to 30 years
Documents: Birth Certificate and National ID Card
Direct Entry Cadets (Specialists)
Fields include Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Medicine and Allied Health Sciences, Engineering and Architecture, Business-related disciplines, and other relevant professional areas.
Applicants must present relevant academic and professional qualifications.
Where to Apply
Applications must be submitted in person at the nearest military recruitment centre. Applicants are required to submit four passport-sized photographs.
Regional Recruitment Centres
Eastern Region:
Regional Recruiting Officer, 2 Infantry Brigade, Reservation Road, Kenema
Western Area:
Regional Recruiting Officer, 3 Infantry Brigade, Timna Barracks, Murray Town, Freetown
Northern Region:
Regional Recruiting Officer, 4 Infantry Brigade, Teko Barracks, Makeni
Southern Region:
Regional Recruiting Officer, 5 Infantry Brigade, Gondama Barracks, Bo
North-Western Region:
Regional Recruiting Officer, 3 Infantry Battalion, Lungi
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Military authorities have encouraged eligible and interested citizens to apply early and ensure all requirements are met before submission. The RSLAF says the recruitment exercise reflects its continued commitment to national security, discipline, and professional service to the nation.
