Africell Sierra Leone has been recognized for its outstanding contributions to community radio, receiving high praise during the 20th anniversary celebration of MODCAR 94.9 FM on February 28, 2025. The event, held on the eve of Ramadan, highlighted Africell’s commitment to strengthening local media and ensuring access to information for communities across the country.
During the ceremony, Alhaji Manika Kamara, Secretary General of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), was presented with a Certificate of Recognition on behalf of Africell. The award, given by the people of Moyamba and MODCAR, acknowledged the company’s unwavering support, exceptional service, and significant contributions to the district’s media landscape.
Delivering the keynote address under the theme “Community Ownership of the Radio Be Visible,” Kamara emphasized the critical role that community radio plays in empowering citizens and fostering public awareness. He reflected on a past engagement in Moyamba, where discussions organized by the Independent Radio Network (IRN) and SLAJ shed light on the severe electricity challenges faced by MODCAR Radio.
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Kamara took the initiative to reach out to Africell Sierra Leone through Abdul Karim Sesay, a key figure within the company. His appeal was met with swift action.
“Understanding the vital role of community radio, I reached out to Africell Sierra Leone, and Abdul Karim Sesay assured me that the company would intervene,” Kamara recounted. “Within weeks, I received an elated call from the station manager, informing me that MODCAR now enjoys a 24-hour electricity supply.”
Kamara expressed deep gratitude to Africell for its prompt and generous response to the community’s needs. “This recognition is truly humbling. I am honored to have played a part in ensuring that the people of Moyamba continue to receive uninterrupted access to critical information through their local radio station.”
He also commended the management and staff of MODCAR 94.9 FM for their dedication to serving the community. “Your commitment to keeping the public informed and engaged is truly commendable. I look forward to further collaboration in advancing media accessibility across Sierra Leone.”
As MODCAR 94.9 FM marks two decades of service, its partnership with Africell underscores the vital role of corporate responsibility in supporting local journalism and media sustainability. Kamara concluded his speech with a heartfelt message: “Thank you once again for this thoughtful recognition. It reaffirms the power of collaboration and the impact we can achieve when we work together. Long live press freedom.”
