By Bakarr Kanu
The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists has renewed its commitment to press freedom and responsible journalism after concluding its 55th Annual General Meeting (AGM), held over two days in the northern city of Makeni.
The meeting, hosted at the University of Makeni from June 12 to 13, brought together journalists, government officials, civil society groups and development partners under the theme of strengthening the country’s economy through responsible journalism.
SLAJ President Manika Kamara said the media plays a central role in democracy by promoting transparency, accountability and public understanding of national issues.
“Responsible journalism is not only a professional duty but a national responsibility,” Kamara told delegates, urging journalists to remain independent, ethical and committed to the public interest.
He reiterated the association’s push for stronger legal protections for media freedom, including proposals for a standalone chapter on press freedom in Sierra Leone’s constitutional review process.
Kamara also addressed concerns over government financial support to SLAJ, saying an annual subvention of 2.7 million leones does not compromise the body’s independence.
The AGM featured a keynote address by Mohamed Alhajie Samoura, managing director of United Bank for Africa Sierra Leone and president of the Sierra Leone Bankers Association, who highlighted the link between credible journalism and economic growth.
He said misinformation and disinformation could undermine investor confidence and called on journalists to expand coverage of development issues such as agriculture, infrastructure and financial inclusion.
Samoura also urged media organisations to adopt sustainable business models, including digital innovation and strategic partnerships, to reduce reliance on political patronage.
Francis Sowa, coordinator of the Media Reform Coordinating Group, said accurate and balanced reporting was essential for building public trust and supporting economic transformation.
He cited progress in media reforms, including the repeal of criminal libel laws, but stressed the need for continued efforts to strengthen the sector.
Inspector General of Police William Fayia Sellu reaffirmed cooperation between the police and journalists, encouraging fair and responsible reporting while supporting investigative journalism.
The AGM, the association’s highest decision-making forum, also provided an opportunity for members to review progress, address challenges facing the profession and adopt strategies to strengthen the media sector.
The event concluded with a media awards dinner recognising excellence in journalism, as participants expressed confidence that the outcomes of the meeting would contribute to a more professional, independent and sustainable media landscape in Sierra Leone.
