The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) has commenced a psychosocial counselling training programme for officers in the Southern Region as part of efforts to improve the mental health and welfare of police personnel.
The training, held on Friday, 22nd May 2026, brought together 120 police officers from Bo West, Bo East, and the Regional Headquarters.
The programme focused on strengthening mental health awareness and psychosocial support within the police force and forms part of the welfare agenda of Inspector General of Police, William Fayia Sellu.
Speaking at the opening session, Regional Police Commander South, AIG Andrew Mustapha Kamara, encouraged participants to actively engage in the training and seek clarification on issues they did not understand. He noted that policing is a stressful profession that often exposes officers to emotional and psychological pressure, adding that such training is important in helping officers maintain sound mental health while carrying out their duties effectively.
The sessions were facilitated by Samuel Yemeh Koroma, Programme Coordinator of AHF Organisation South East Region, and his team.
Participants received training on stress management, the psychological impact of policing, barriers to seeking support, and practical counselling mechanisms to improve mental wellbeing.
The programme was interactive, with officers participating in discussions and question-and-answer sessions throughout the engagement.
Participants described the training as timely and beneficial to both their personal and professional lives.
The Sierra Leone Police said the initiative will eventually be extended to all six police administrative regions across the country.
