By Yusufu S. Bangura
Police officers and UNDP Staff present at the training ground
In a bid to enhance effective communication with the public, the Sierra Leone Police (SLP), with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has commenced two-day training on strategic communication and media engagement.
The workshop, held at Sierra Palms Hotel in Freetown, focuses on improving social media management, public relations, and community engagement strategies.
Speaking at the event, Ilemobola Ademola-Adelehin, Gender and Inclusion Specialist at UNDP, emphasized that the training aligns with efforts to transform the Sierra Leone Police from a force to a service-oriented institution. “We envision an SLP that is trusted, proactive, and effective in performing its constitutional duties,” she stated.
She highlighted UNDP’s ongoing partnership with the government in justice and security sector reforms, noting that the Police Act of 1964 is currently under review with support from the Law Reform Commission. “Our goal is to establish a service-oriented police force that meets community needs while upholding democratic policing principles,” she added.
Assistant Inspector General of Police, Esther Dukuray, reaffirmed the importance of effective communication in bridging the gap between law enforcement and the public. “How we communicate reflects our commitment to professionalism, accountability, and service excellence,” she said.
She urged participants to embrace the training as an opportunity for personal development and to adopt best practices in engaging with the public. “Community policing minimizes crime and fosters trust between the police and the people. Every officer must ensure that their communication reflects integrity, fairness, and respect,” she emphasized.
Assistant Commissioner of Police, Brima Kamara, also addressed participants, encouraging consistency, transparency, and professionalism in public interactions. “We must change our mindset and communicate with clarity and honesty,” he urged, calling for a unified approach toward community-focused policing.
The training aims to strengthen the SLP’s capacity to communicate effectively, support its strategic development plan (2025-2030), and reinforce its transformation into a trusted, service-oriented police force that values public trust and community collaboration.
