By Amin Kef (Ranger)
The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) Gender Advisory Panel (GAP) issued a statement on Friday March 8, 2024, marking International Women’s Day 2024 under the theme “Invest In Women; Accelerate Progress.” Signed by Dr. Williette James (Ph.D), Chairperson of SLAJ GAP, the statement highlights the pivotal role of women journalists and calls for concerted efforts to support their advancement in the profession.
Dr. Williette James emphasized the importance of recognizing and celebrating the contributions of women journalists globally, acknowledging their resilience in the face of challenges. Reflecting on the progress made, Dr. James noted the increased participation and capacity of women journalists in Sierra Leone, highlighting their potential to enrich the journalism profession.
A significant milestone mentioned in the statement is the establishment of the SLAJ Gender Equality Policy, a framework aimed at addressing gender-related issues within the media landscape. Dr. James commended SLAJ’s President, Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, for initiating this policy, stressing the need for its full implementation with adequate resources.
Regarding this year’s theme, “Invest in Women, Accelerate Progress,” Dr. James emphasized the importance of investing in capacity building and mentorship programs for women journalists. She called for greater access to training opportunities and international collaborations to enhance their skills and exposure, ultimately accelerating their professional growth.
The statement reiterated SLAJ’s commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment, outlining key objectives outlined in the gender policy. These include proactive integration of gender equality principles, equitable addressing of gender issues, removal of obstacles to equal opportunities, and promotion of gender-sensitive journalism practices.
In light of International Women’s Day, Dr. James reaffirmed SLAJ’s dedication to creating a safe and inclusive environment for female journalists, both online and offline. The statement concluded with a message of solidarity and appreciation for the invaluable contributions of women journalists to the association and society at large.
As the world celebrates International Women’s Day, SLAJ’s Gender Advisory Panel calls for sustained efforts to invest in and empower women journalists, driving progress and inclusivity within the media industry.
