RSLAF Secures Land in Masiaka for New Military Housing, Juba Barracks Under Review
By: James Kamara-Manneh
The Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) has secured land in Masiaka for the construction of a modern military accommodation complex intended to replace aging inner-city barracks and improve living conditions for personnel and their families.
In a press release issued on Monday, the Ministry of Defence said the project forms part of a broader transition strategy to address longstanding housing challenges within the force.
Defence Spokesperson Air Commodore Hassan Sei Coomber stated that only about 30 percent of military personnel are currently housed in official barracks, with the majority residing in rented, temporary, or civilian accommodation.
The proposed facility in Masiaka is expected to include purpose-built housing for troops and their families, expanded training and support infrastructure, modern utilities aligned with professional armed forces standards, and capacity for future institutional growth.
Meanwhile, the future of Juba Barracks remains under consideration. The facility, comprising approximately 20 aging buildings, no longer meets modern military housing standards, according to officials. Originally situated outside the city, Juba Barracks is now located within a densely populated urban area due to Freetown’s expansion, a development authorities say has constrained operational flexibility and limited expansion opportunities.
To finance the Masiaka project, the RSLAF disclosed that several options concerning Juba Barracks are being evaluated, including a potential sale, lease arrangement, public-private partnership, or partial redevelopment. Officials emphasized that no final decision has been reached.
The Ministry said any eventual course of action will undergo comprehensive legal, financial, and strategic assessments. Authorities also assured that all options under review will comply with constitutional and legal requirements, incorporate stakeholder consultations, and be subject to independent evaluation to ensure value for money and safeguard the national interest.
RSLAF pledged to maintain transparency and stated that its final decision will be publicly announced upon completion of the evaluation process.
