The Parliamentary Oversight Committee on Defence has engaged key security stakeholders in a high-level dialogue to address growing concerns over the regulation, management, and control of explosives in Sierra Leone. The meeting, held at the Office of National Security (ONS) headquarters on Tower Hill, brought together representatives from the Ministry of Defence, Law Officers’ Department, and ONS.
The engagement, chaired by Hon. Alex Rogers, follows increasing apprehension among Members of Parliament over the safety, legality, and proliferation of explosive materials in the country. It aimed to explore current practices in handling, transportation, and usage of explosives while identifying gaps in existing legislation and enforcement.
In his opening remarks, Hon. Rogers stressed the urgent need for tighter control and regulation of explosives, citing the risks associated with poor oversight and outdated laws. He called for a comprehensive framework to guide the use of explosives, particularly in light of their hazardous chemical properties and potential dual use as weapons or industrial tools.
“The current system is too loose, and the legal backing insufficient,” Hon. Rogers noted. “We need proper due diligence and robust regulation to ensure public safety.”
A key presentation was delivered by the Chief of Staff of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces, Major General Amara Idara Bangura, who also serves as the Chief Inspector of Explosives. He outlined recent developments in the sector, highlighting the pressing need for modern regulation. A legal representative from the Law Officers’ Department briefed the committee on ongoing efforts to review the colonial-era 1955 Explosives Ordinance Act, which has been deemed outdated and ineffective in addressing present-day security realities.
The ONS also presented on strides made toward improving coordination and oversight, including the establishment of a transitional regulatory team. This team is tasked with setting up a centralised “one-stop shop” for explosives regulation, bringing together oversight from the Defence Ministry, ONS, and legal authorities.
Committee members observed that several actors are currently operating with explosive substances, raising significant security concerns. The lack of a cohesive regulatory mechanism has led to confusion and potential lapses in enforcement.
In response, the Committee recommended swift legislative reform, using the existing seven Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) as a foundation for overhauling the 1955 Ordinance. The proposed changes will include the creation of a national database of all explosives handlers and stronger licensing procedures.
Other key resolutions from the meeting included:
1. Immediate handover of regulatory responsibilities and documentation to the Chief of Staff to consolidate oversight.
2. Acceleration of public awareness and sensitisation campaigns focused on human and national security.
3. Incorporation of indigenous companies in the regulation and handling of explosives, aligning with Sierra Leone’s local content policy.
4. Periodic site visits and updates to Parliament to ensure transparency and accountability.
With growing commercial interest in mining and construction sectors, stakeholders say reforming the legal and regulatory framework for explosives is no longer optional but a national imperative.
The committee reaffirmed Parliament’s commitment to supporting a secure and transparent management system for explosives, protecting both public safety and national interest.
By Feima Sesay and Amara Foe
