First Female Infantry Battalion Commander Urges More Women to Lead in Military
Former Commanding Officer of the 14th Infantry Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Alice Koria Sesay, has encouraged more women to pursue leadership positions in Sierra Leone’s military following her historic appointment as the first woman to command an infantry battalion in the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF).
Reflecting on her experience in a traditionally male-dominated institution, Sesay spoke about navigating expectations and stereotypes surrounding how women should lead.
She expressed hope that her achievement would inspire other women to pursue similar leadership opportunities within the military.
“It is not about me anymore. I’m hoping my example of leadership can set the pace for others,” she said.
Sesay was commissioned as a combatant officer in 2007 after completing her military training at the Armed Forces Training Centre in Benguema.
Her appointment as Commanding Officer of the 14th Infantry Battalion in August 2025 marked a historic milestone, making her the first female combatant officer in the RSLAF to command a fighting unit.
She served in the position until 2 September 2026, when a change-of-command ceremony was held at Maple Leaf Barracks in Pujehun District, transferring leadership to Lieutenant Colonel Samura.
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