In a decisive move aimed at strengthening national peace, security, and social cohesion, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Inter-Religious Council of Sierra Leone (IRCSL) have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) designed to deepen collaboration in addressing crime, violence, drug abuse, and other emerging security challenges across the country.
The agreement, signed in Freetown on Wednesday, June 17th 2026, establishes a structured framework through which both institutions will work together to promote peacebuilding, enhance community participation in security initiatives, and support national efforts geared toward crime prevention and social stability.
The partnership comes at a time when Sierra Leone continues to confront the growing threat of substance abuse, particularly the widespread use of kush among young people, as well as concerns over public safety and social disorder. Under the new arrangement, the Ministry and the Inter-Religious Council will jointly undertake advocacy, awareness raising, community engagement, and coordinated interventions aimed at safeguarding peace and security nationwide.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, the Minister of Internal Affairs, AIG (Rtd.) Morie Lengor Esq., described the occasion as a historic milestone that formalizes a long-standing relationship between the Ministry and the Inter-Religious Council of Sierra Leone. He noted that the collaboration gained renewed momentum following President Julius Maada Bio’s declaration of a state of emergency on kush, which brought together various stakeholders to tackle the devastating impact of drug abuse on communities.
Minister Lengor commended the leadership and members of the Inter-Religious Council for their unwavering commitment to national peace and development, describing them as a critical constituency in Sierra Leone’s governance and peace architecture.
“The signing of this MOU demonstrates our collective determination to safeguard the peace and security of this nation. It transforms an existing partnership into a formal and actionable framework that will enable us to address drug-related issues and other security concerns more effectively,” he stated.
He further expressed confidence that despite possible implementation challenges, both institutions possess the commitment and determination required to ensure the success of the agreement. According to him, the partnership will contribute significantly to creating a safer environment that supports sustainable development, economic growth, and employment opportunities for citizens.
The Professional Head and Director of Policy and Coordination at the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Mohamed G. Yoki Esq., provided an overview of the Memorandum of Understanding, outlining its objectives, responsibilities, and implementation mechanisms. He explained that the agreement seeks to strengthen cooperation among stakeholders while advancing the country’s overarching peace and security agenda.
Also addressing the gathering, Inspector General of Police William Fayia Sellu hailed the agreement as a major breakthrough in the nation’s quest for lasting peace and stability. He praised the Minister of Internal Affairs for pursuing strategic partnerships that complement government efforts to maintain law and order.
The Police Chief highlighted the significant role played by the Inter-Religious Council during some of Sierra Leone’s most challenging periods, noting that religious leaders have consistently used their platforms to promote dialogue, reconciliation, and peaceful coexistence.
“The Council has remained a dependable partner in preserving peace through community engagement, prayers, and the dissemination of messages that encourage national unity and stability,” he said.
IG Sellu assured stakeholders that the Sierra Leone Police would fully support and enforce the provisions of the agreement to ensure its intended objectives are achieved.
On behalf of the Inter-Religious Council of Sierra Leone, Vice President Alhaji Mutada Sesay welcomed the initiative and described the MOU as one that is founded on mutual trust, shared values, and a common commitment to national development.
While reaffirming the Council’s dedication to the partnership, he also called on government authorities to address other pressing national concerns affecting citizens. He stressed that the Council remains committed to ensuring the successful implementation of the agreement despite financial and operational challenges.
“Our focus is now on translating this agreement into tangible actions that will help build a peaceful, secure, and drug-free Sierra Leone,” he stated.
The Director of Operations of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Ibrahim Kargbo, revealed that the establishment of a formal partnership with the Inter-Religious Council had long been a vision championed by Minister Lengor during his tenure as Chairman of the agency.
He expressed satisfaction that the aspiration had finally materialized, emphasizing that the agreement aligns closely with the NDLEA’s anti-drug campaigns and drug demand reduction initiatives.
According to Kargbo, religious leaders occupy a unique position within society and can significantly influence behavioral change through advocacy and community outreach. He disclosed that the agency is currently conducting a four-day nationwide sensitization campaign ahead of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
Stakeholders at the event agreed that the partnership represents an important step toward mobilizing communities, religious institutions, security agencies, and government bodies in a united effort to address social and security challenges facing the nation.
The ceremony concluded with renewed commitments from all parties to fully implement the provisions of the MOU and work collectively toward achieving a peaceful, secure, and prosperous Sierra Leone where citizens can thrive free from the threats of violence, crime, and drug abuse.