After the war, reform of the security sector was an immediate priority to provide a safe environment to begin economic recovery, re-establish government services and start reducing poverty.

The UK is providing ongoing support to capacity, improving democratic accountability, developing robust and self sustainig institutions and improving capability at the strategic and operational levels.

We have also committed to support Sierra Leone through the provision of an International Military Assistance and Training Team (IMATT). IMATT’s mission is to assist the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) with its transformation into a self-sustaining, democratically accountable and affordable force.

Present IMATT priorities

• Supporting implementation of Sierra Leone's core review.
• Training and Education: Achieved mainly through the Horton Academy and the Infantry Training Advisory Team (ITAT), with reducing effort in the Field Army.
• Developing Peace Support Operations capability: An ECOWAS Standyby Force company training cycle is now in place.