Michigan and Sierra Leone Strengthen Military Partnership Through Collaborative Training

May 1, 2025

The partnership between the Michigan National Guard and the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces has entered a new phase with a series of joint engagements held from April 11–18 in Freetown. These sessions focused on military education, vehicle operations, disaster response, and interagency coordination.

Launched in 2024, the collaboration has already seen six activities take place in Sierra Leone, reflecting key priorities outlined by the country’s military leadership. These recent engagements build on efforts initiated during a visit in November 2024, which established foundational programs in professional development and logistics.

Officials from both sides highlighted the value of the growing relationship. Plans are underway for Sierra Leonean personnel to participate in Northern Strike, a major U.S. military training exercise in Michigan this August.

The initiative is part of a broader global effort to foster security cooperation, linking U.S. National Guard units with military forces around the world for shared training and capacity building.