CIO Kanneh Highlights Year of Progress in Immigration Reforms

Under the dynamic leadership of Chief Immigration Officer (CIO) Hon. Alusine Kanneh, the Sierra Leone Immigration Department (SLID) has officially unveiled new security uniforms for its personnel. This important initiative aims not only to enhance security but also to reinforce the identity and professionalism of the department.

In his welcome address, Hon. Kanneh emphasized that the unveiling of the new uniforms symbolizes a profound transformation within the SLID. He stated, “A uniform is not just fabric; it is a badge of honor, authority, and responsibility.” This statement underscores the notion that uniforms represent more than just a change in appearance; they embody the values of discipline, unity, and the trust that the people of Sierra Leone place in their immigration officers. The new attire is meant to instill a sense of pride and accountability among personnel, reminding them of their critical role in maintaining national security.

Hon. Kanneh pointed out that the Immigration Department is at the very heart of the nation’s security apparatus. As the gatekeepers of Sierra Leone’s borders, immigration officers are tasked with safeguarding the country’s sovereignty, maintaining law and order at entry points, and facilitating the smooth movement of people. This is crucial for promoting economic growth and national development, particularly in a country where international mobility plays a significant role in various sectors.

Highlighting the achievements of his administration over the past year, Hon. Kanneh noted significant progress in modernizing the SLID. He has focused on enhancing the operational capacity of the department, building a more agile workforce, and implementing comprehensive administrative reforms. These reforms aim to streamline operations, improve transparency, and promote accountability by reducing bureaucratic inefficiencies. As a result, the department is now better equipped to deliver services swiftly and effectively.

A key component of Hon. Kanneh’s vision is the decentralization of passport processing, which is set to roll out by the end of November 2024 in three major district headquarters: Kenema, Bo, and Bombali. This initiative will make essential services more accessible to citizens in different regions of the country. Furthermore, plans are in place to extend these services to two of Sierra Leone’s foreign missions in London and Washington D.C. in early 2024, thereby enhancing the department’s ability to serve citizens abroad.

Dr. Emmanuel Gaima, Secretary to the President, also spoke at the event, emphasizing the importance of immigration and border management in ensuring national security. He noted that the unveiling of the new uniforms is a testament to the current leadership’s commitment, under President Julius Maada Bio, to strengthening the immigration service. Dr. Gaima highlighted that effective border management is crucial for national peace and security, stressing that immigration should be viewed as a comprehensive management effort rather than merely the issuance of passports and travel documents.

Local Government Minister Tamba Lamina delivered the keynote address on behalf of the Vice President, underscoring the role of immigration officers as representatives of Sierra Leone to the world. He pointed out that their uniforms, which incorporate national symbols and colors, promote the country’s identity and values. This not only serves to instill national pride but also leaves a positive impression on visitors, contributing to a strong and unified national image.

The occasion was graced by several dignitaries, including the Chief of Defense Staff, the Inspector General of Police, the Minister of Transport, and other key figures from various sectors. Their presence underscored the collaborative effort required to enhance immigration services in Sierra Leone, highlighting the importance of unity among government agencies in addressing national challenges.

The unveiling of the new uniforms marks a significant milestone for the Sierra Leone Immigration Department. It reflects a broader commitment to professionalism, modernization, and the vital role of immigration in safeguarding the nation’s borders. As the SLID continues to evolve, it aims to better serve the people of Sierra Leone and uphold the values of integrity, vigilance, and dedicated service to the nation. This initiative positions the department to effectively respond to the challenges of today’s world, ensuring that it remains a robust component of Sierra Leone’s security framework.