The African Union (AU) Formed Police Unit Assessment Team has officially declared the Sierra Leone Formed Police Unit (SLFPU-6) “fit for deployment” to the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS). This declaration followed a rigorous evaluation conducted from November 12 to 15, 2024, at the Sierra Leone Peacekeeping and Law Enforcement Academy (SILEA).
The three-day assessment involved a series of intensive tests designed to evaluate the Unit’s readiness. These included literacy examinations, proficiency interviews for commanders, driving tests for selected personnel, and practical weapon-handling drills. Officers demonstrated exceptional proficiency in stripping and assembling pistols (CF98) and rifles (AK47). A thorough review of medical fitness and operational readiness was also conducted, culminating in simulation exercises to test teamwork and coordination under mission-like conditions.
Commendation for Excellence
ACP Emmanuel Lithakong Ntpaba, leader of the AU Assessment Team, praised SLFPU-6 for meeting international standards required for deployment. He highlighted their teamwork, professionalism, and preparedness during the evaluation process.
“Congratulations to the Unit for successfully completing the assessment,” ACP Ntpaba stated. “I am pleased to declare you fit for deployment to ATMIS. Your performance exemplifies the standards expected of peacekeeping personnel.”
Rigorous Training and Selection
ACP John Fayiah Tumbay, Head of Peacekeeping Operations at the Sierra Leone Police (SLP), provided insights into the Unit’s journey toward this achievement.
“We started with over 600 applicants. After internal assessments, only 300 advanced to further training, which was both rigorous and demanding,” ACP Tumbay explained. “Ultimately, more than 200 personnel were trained, and 160 will be deployed while the remainder will serve as reserves. The process was designed to ensure only the most capable candidates succeeded.”
He commended the perseverance and dedication of those selected, noting that their certification reflects their hard work and readiness to uphold the principles of peacekeeping in Somalia.
“You have excelled in every aspect and earned this opportunity. Your deployment signifies a new chapter in your service to the region and the African continent,” ACP Tumbay emphasized.
Acknowledgments and Celebrations
ACP Tumbay extended gratitude to the AU Assessment Team for their diligence, the SLP Executive Management Board for their support, and the training instructors for their commitment. He also applauded the personnel of SLFPU-6 for their professionalism and determination.
The certification ceremony concluded on a jubilant note, with personnel celebrating their achievement alongside instructors and the assessment team. The event captured the pride and readiness of SLFPU-6 as they prepare to embark on their peacekeeping mission in Somalia.
This accomplishment underscores Sierra Leone’s commitment to contributing to global peace and security through professional and well-trained peacekeeping forces.
