On July 18, 2024, Sierra Leone's Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, urged media stakeholders to collaborate on developing a National Media Policy aimed at enhancing national pride and addressing media development issues across the country.

Speaking at a stakeholders' engagement held at the New Brookfields Hotel on July 17, 2024, Bah emphasized the need for a comprehensive and progressive policy framework for the media sector. Francis Sowa, a policy consultant supported by UNDP, outlined the extensive consultations conducted nationwide and expressed confidence in presenting a robust policy draft for review.

Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), supported the Minister's call, highlighting the importance of the National Media Policy in consolidating media achievements. He noted key milestones such as the National Action Plan, SLAJ Media Manifesto, and Media Gender Policy, and praised recent legislative reforms including the repeal of Part 5 of the 1965 Public Order Act and the introduction of the Independent Media Commission Act.

Nasralla also emphasized the need for a legislated subvention to ensure sustainable support for the media. Minister Bah reiterated his commitment to fostering a robust and independent media landscape, promising to be a steadfast ally to media interests and advocating for media independence and responsible journalism.

Feedback from stakeholders across Western Rural and Urban Areas was gathered to ensure diverse perspectives are incorporated into the finalJuly 18, 2024 policy draft.

Ishaqa S. Jalloh

Ishaqajalloh@sierraleonews.com

+23278799279