Freetown – Vice President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Dr Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, on [date of launch] formally launched Red Poppy Week 2026, calling on citizens to honour the country’s fallen soldiers and security personnel who sacrificed their lives in the service of peace, national security and global stability.
The ceremony, held ahead of the annual Remembrance Day commemorations on 11 November, paid tribute to the contributions of Sierra Leonean servicemen and women to international peacekeeping and the protection of the nation.
Addressing the gathering, Vice President Juldeh Jalloh said Remembrance Day offers an opportunity for reflection on the sacrifices made during the First and Second World Wars, as well as by Sierra Leoneans who have lost their lives in conflicts and national emergencies.
“There is no better love than when a man lays down his life for the survival of his friends and countrymen,” he stated, paying special tribute to fallen members of the security forces, including personnel who died during the November 2023 security incident.
The Vice President also commended Sierra Leone’s contribution to international peacekeeping, expressing pride in the country’s participation in global security operations, including deployments in Somalia.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the welfare of retired servicemen and women and encouraged individuals, institutions and organisations to contribute generously towards improving the well-being of veterans and their families.
Deputy Minister of Defence, Colonel (Retired) Muana Brima Massaquoi, explained that the remembrance observance honours military personnel who paid the ultimate price during the world wars and other conflicts in defence of peace and humanity.
He noted that the launch formed part of preparations for the national commemoration, traditionally observed on 11 November at 11:00 a.m., and called for continued recognition of the sacrifices made by servicemen and women.
Representing the Sierra Leone Ex-Servicemen Association, retired Lieutenant Colonel Abu Bakarr Sorie Kamara highlighted the historical significance of Remembrance Day and the need to preserve the legacy of those who served in the First and Second World Wars. He also drew attention to the welfare challenges facing retired servicemen and their families, appealing for sustained government and public support, including assistance for veterans and widows.
The ceremony underscored the importance of remembrance, national solidarity and continued support for those who have served Sierra Leone and the international community. Major (Retired) Max Sesay presented the Vice President’s Red Poppy, symbolising the nation’s enduring gratitude to fallen heroes and the commitment to keeping their sacrifices alive in the national consciousness.
