UNDP, EU Support Sierra Leone’s Youth Peace and Security Agenda

August 8, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Demonstrating a strong commitment to youth inclusion in peacebuilding and national development, the Ministry of Youth Affairs, supported by UNDP Sierra Leone and development partners, concluded the country’s first National Workshop on the Youth, Peace and Security (YPS) Agenda on August 4, 2025, in Freetown.

The two-day workshop marks the initial phase in the formulation of Sierra Leone’s first National Action Plan (NAP) on Youth, Peace and Security. The plan will serve as a guiding framework to ensure the meaningful participation of young people in conflict prevention, peacebuilding and sustainable national development.

Bringing together youth leaders, Government officials, civil society organizations, UN agencies and international development partners, the workshop underscored the urgency of positioning young people as central stakeholders in the country’s peace and security architecture.

Minister of Youth Affairs, Ibrahim Sannoh, reaffirmed the Government’s unwavering commitment to empowering young people as active partners in national peace and development. He emphasized that the initiative aligns fully with Sierra Leone’s Mid-Term National Development Plan (2024–2030), which prioritizes youth inclusion and leadership.

Representing UNDP, Mabulara Tsuene underscored the importance of youth leadership in shaping the nation’s future. “Youth are not only the leaders of tomorrow, but the change makers of today,” she said. “Their voices, creativity and leadership are essential in building a peaceful and resilient Sierra Leone.”

Also addressing the gathering, Dr. Julius Foday, International Aid & Cooperation Manager at the EU Delegation to Sierra Leone, called attention to the long-standing issue of youth exclusion from policymaking processes. He emphasized that tackling that challenge is critical to advancing the YPS agenda in the country.

Over the course of the workshop, participants, including representatives from Government Ministries, Civil Society Organizations focused on governance and security, youth-led groups and other stakeholders delved into the five core pillars of UN Security Council Resolution 2250: participation, protection, prevention, partnerships and reintegration.

Participants also benefited from shared experiences and lessons learned from Nigeria and The Gambia, where National Action Plans on YPS are already in place and being implemented. Those insights provided valuable guidance on best practices and potential pitfalls to avoid as Sierra Leone moves forward with its own roadmap.

At the close of the workshop, there was a collective commitment among stakeholders to domesticate the YPS agenda by developing a comprehensive national roadmap. That roadmap will guide countrywide consultations to ensure that young people across all regions and communities have a voice in shaping the NAP, ensuring it reflects their diverse realities, needs and aspirations.

The workshop was jointly supported by UNDP Sierra Leone and the EU Support to ECOWAS in Peace, Security and Governance (EPSG) Project. EPSG, co-funded by the European Union and commissioned by the German Government, is implemented by GIZ, EF and FIAP in collaboration with ECOWAS. The project aims to strengthen ECOWAS’ capacity to advance peace, security and good governance throughout West Africa.

Sierra Leone’s historic journey toward institutionalizing youth participation in peace and development gains renewed momentum, with the outcomes of the workshop setting a hopeful tone for the future of the country’s young generation.

Ghana Mourns National Tragedy as Helicopter Crash Claims Eight Lives, Including Two Ministers

August 8, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Ghana has been plunged into mourning following a military helicopter crash in the Ashanti Region that claimed the lives of eight people, including Defence Minister, Edward Omane Boamah and Environment, Science and Technology Minister, Ibrahim Muhammed, on Wednesday August 6, 2025.

The Ghana Armed Forces confirmed that the Z-9 military helicopter departed Accra at about 9:00 a.m. GMT bound for Obuasi but lost radar contact en route. The wreckage was discovered near Adansi, with no survivors among the three crew members and five passengers.

Also killed in the crash were Alhaji Muniru Limuna, acting Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Agriculture Minister; Samuel Sarpong, Vice-Chairman of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) and Samuel Aboagye, a former NDC parliamentary candidate.

President John Mahama, describing the tragedy as “a great national loss,” ordered flags to fly at half-mast nationwide and suspended his official engagements for the day. “We extend our deepest condolences to the families of our comrades and the servicemen who died in service to the country,” Chief of Staff Julius Debrah said in a statement.

The late Defence Minister Edward Omane Boamah, a former Communications Minister and presidential spokesperson, was appointed in February 2025 and had been steering Ghana’s defence policy amid growing regional security concerns. Environment Minister Murtala Muhammed, also appointed in February, was a vocal advocate for sustainable development and environmental reforms.

Ghana has so far avoided direct attacks from Sahel-based armed groups operating in neighbouring Mali and Burkina Faso, but the Government has remained vigilant over potential cross-border threats. The crash has raised fresh concerns about the safety and maintenance of military aircraft.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the accident, but no preliminary findings have been released. The sudden deaths of the two Ministers leave critical vacancies in President Mahama’s cabinet, posing immediate challenges to governance at a time of heightened regional security risks.

Full List of Persons Onboard Crashed Military Helicopter — All Confirmed Dead:

– Dr. Edward Omane Boamah – Minister for Defence

– Dr. Alhaji Murtala Muhammed – MP for Tamale Central, Minister for Environment, Science & Technology

– Alhaji Muniru Mohammed – Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator

– Dr. Samuel Sarpong – Vice Chairman of the NDC

– Samuel Aboagye – Former Parliamentary Candidate

– Sqn. Leader Peter Bafemi Anala

– Flying Officer, Twum Ampadu

– Sgt. Ernest Addo Mensah

Ghana mourns a national tragedy. All flags are to be flown at half-mast.

Africell Kicks Off 2025/26 Fantasy Premier League with Exciting Rewards

August 8, 2025

One of the leading telecommunications providers, Africell Sierra Leone, has launched its own official Fantasy Premier League (FPL) competition, offering subscribers across the country an exciting opportunity to compete for attractive prizes while showcasing their football management skills.

The official launch took place on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at Africell’s headquarters on Pivot Street, Wilberforce in Freetown. The event marked the beginning of a season-long football-based competition open exclusively to Africell subscribers.

Addressing attendees at the launch, Africell’s Media Relations Team Lead, Abdul Aziz Kamara, introduced the fundamentals of Fantasy Premier League. He described it as a free-to-play, online game tied to the English Premier League, where participants build and manage a 15-player squad using a virtual budget of £100 million.

Players in each fantasy team mirror real-life Premier League stars, with participants earning points based on actual performances; goals, assists, clean sheets and more. Points can also be lost for actions like yellow cards and missed penalties.

Abdul Aziz Kamara added that participants can make one free player transfer per gameweek, with additional changes costing four points each. Managers can also utilize special “chips” such as the Wildcard, Triple Captain, Bench Boost and Free Hit to gain a tactical edge.

Speaking on behalf of Africell’s marketing team, Kamanda Koroma, Marketing Communications Manager, expressed enthusiasm about the initiative. A fantasy football veteran himself, Kamanda Koroma highlighted the game’s inclusive and engaging nature.

“This is not just another console game. It’s a real-time competition rooted in football, open to everyone with no barriers to entry,” Kamanda Koroma stated. “It’s free to join and the prizes are real, transparent and rewarding.”

Kamanda Koroma disclosed that the Africell Fantasy Premier League will span the full English Premier League season—38 gameweeks across 10 months and offer prizes at weekly, monthly and end-of-season levels.

Weekly winners will receive a Yamix bundle, including data, SMS top-ups and a one-month free subscription to Startimes, which airs Premier League matches and other entertainment.
Monthly winners will be awarded NLe 3,500 along with a customized jersey of their favorite Premier League team.
At the end of the season, the top five overall managers will receive:
- 1st Place – NLe 100,000
- 2nd Place – NLe 70,000
- 3rd Place – NLe 60,000
- 4th Place – NLe 45,000
- 5th Place – NLe 35,000

Participation is completely free but requires an Africell SIM card registered in the participant’s name as well as an Afrimoney account to receive cash prizes.

To maintain excitement throughout the season, Kamanda Koroma noted that Africell will engage participants through multimedia platforms, including visual content, podcasts, WhatsApp groups and regular updates on social media.

“This initiative reinforces Africell’s broader commitment to sports development in Sierra Leone from football to volleyball and basketball. We encourage everyone to be a part of this fun, engaging and rewarding experience,” he added.

How to Join:
Subscribers can register now by entering the league code “7uvl7d” or by clicking the auto-join link: https://fantasy.premierleague.com/leagues/auto-join/7uvl7d to start building their dream teams.

With free entry, enticing rewards and interactive engagement, the Africell Fantasy Premier League promises to add extra excitement to the 2025/26 football season.

NatCA Activates ECOWAS Free Roaming Across Côte d’Ivoire, Gambia, and Liberia

August 8, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Marking a major step towards regional digital integration, the National Telecommunications Authority (NatCA) has officially activated the ECOWAS Free Roaming service in Sierra Leone. Effective Wednesday, August 6, 2025, mobile phone users traveling to Côte d’Ivoire, The Gambia and Liberia can enjoy seamless communication without switching SIM cards or paying additional roaming charges.

The new service enables:

Free incoming calls for 30 days
Local rates for outgoing calls and data usage
Elimination of international roaming fees for short-term travelers
Immediate access through Africell and Orange, with QCell expected to join soon

To activate the service, users can dial:

*235# for Africell
*266# for Orange

Speaking on the significance of the rollout, NatCA Director General Amara Brewah emphasized the Authority’s ongoing commitment to improving service quality and affordability. “We had to make it clear that the people of Sierra Leone deserve better,” he said. “Quality of Service is a big issue, but NatCA is committed to addressing it. This free roaming activation is part of our broader strategy to balance consumer expectations, investor confidence and Government priorities.”

The move by Sierra Leone and Liberia to activate ECOWAS free roaming is part of a broader regional effort to create a digitally connected West Africa. This initiative is a cornerstone of the ECOWAS agenda to facilitate the free movement of people, goods and services, thereby enhancing trade, tourism and cross-border social connections.

The journey began in June 2023, when Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire pioneered the first bilateral free roaming agreement. Since then, Ghana has extended the service to Togo, Benin and The Gambia, with several other countries lining up to join the digital integration wave.

Under the initiative, bilateral and tripartite memorandums of understanding (MoUs) allow mobile subscribers to enjoy consistent access to communication services across borders; receiving calls at no cost and paying domestic rates for outgoing calls and internet usage for up to 30 days.

The ECOWAS Free Roaming initiative is already proving transformative for individuals and businesses, particularly in the informal trade and tourism sectors. The removal of high roaming costs reduces the burden on travelers and small business owners who frequently cross borders within the region.

According to NatCA, this initiative aligns with the Government of Sierra Leone’s vision of affordable, accessible and reliable communication for all. It is also expected to catalyze broader economic integration across the sub-region.

However, challenges remain. High interconnection fees between operators and limited direct network links still present obstacles to a fully regional implementation. Despite this, the continued success of bilateral agreements demonstrates strong momentum.

With more countries in the ECOWAS bloc preparing to sign on, the vision of a digitally interconnected West Africa is fast becoming a reality. Telecom regulators, including Sierra Leone’s NatCA and the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA), are actively engaged in building the infrastructure and policy frameworks necessary to expand the service.

Building momentum in regional connectivity, NatCA’s efforts now allow Sierra Leoneans to travel freely while staying connected without extra costs. This development goes beyond technology; it represents a significant step toward deeper regional unity and expanded economic opportunity.

Stats SL, MoICE Engage Media to Boost Public Participation in 2026 Census

August 8, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Statistics Sierra Leone (Stats SL), in collaboration with the Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MoICE), has stepped up preparations for the 2026 Population and Housing Census by engaging senior editors and producers from leading newspapers, radio and television stations.

The high-level roundtable, held on Tuesday, 5th August 2025, at the Ministry’s Conference Room on the 8th Floor of the Youyi Building in Freetown, sought to strengthen collaboration with the media to ensure effective public communication and nationwide participation in the Census.

Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, underscored the media’s crucial role in the process, noting that the primary challenge for the 2026 Census will be preventing inflated household figures rather than undercounting, a concern raised during previous exercises.

“This roundtable marks the first step in deepening our partnership with the media. You are not just observers; you are owners of this process,” the Minister said, urging Sierra Leoneans to participate fully and truthfully under the official slogan: “2026 Census: Leh Den Count You Oh!”

Stats SL’s Director of Communication and Public Relations, Samuel Ansumana, reported that the Pilot Cartographic Mapping was completed in July, with training for the main mapping phase starting on the 12th August, followed by fieldwork. The mapping will divide the country into enumeration areas ahead of the Pilot Census in December 2025.

He called on the media to champion the process, stressing that public trust and participation are key to producing credible, inclusive and data-driven results.

The meeting ended with an interactive Q&A session, reinforcing a shared commitment to delivering a transparent and people-centered 2026 Census.

NP (SL) Champions Sustainable Fuel Supply for National Development

August 8, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP (SL) Limited has reiterated its unwavering mission to deliver a consistent supply of petroleum products in an environmentally sustainable manner while offering exceptional value to customers, employees and stakeholders. This mission, the company says, is anchored in a strong corporate culture built on safety, profit optimization and expansion; all aimed at contributing meaningfully to Sierra Leone’s socio-economic development.

The company’s vision is to establish itself as a “well-run, dominant petroleum company” capable of competing effectively across the West African sub-region. Internally, NP (SL) operates like a disciplined family committed to building a “great company,” guided by five core values: Safe Working Environments, Excellent Customer Service, High-Quality Products, Environmental Sustainability and Positive Teamwork.

Under the leadership of its Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Mohamed S. Kanu, a seasoned petroleum executive with extensive sub-regional experience, NP (SL) is embarking on a new chapter of strategic growth. Formerly the CEO of NP Côte d’Ivoire, Dr. Mohamed S. Kanu is credited with improving operational efficiency and expanding market share in his previous roles. The Board of Directors has described his appointment as “the beginning of a new era of visionary leadership and sustainable expansion.”

Proudly 100% Sierra Leonean-owned, NP (SL) has consistently demonstrated innovation and customer focus. Its initiatives include the NP Energy Pass Card, a cashless payment system that supports financial inclusion and digitization and the deployment of Mobile Fuel Tanks to ensure reliable service for public institutions. The company also prioritizes transparency by installing calibrated fuel pumps and employing GPS and video tracking systems to ensure logistical efficiency and accountability.

As one of Sierra Leone’s leading taxpayers, NP (SL) plays a critical role in national revenue generation while supporting Government operations through flexible fuel credit schemes. Its regional operations span Liberia, Guinea, Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia, cementing its position as a West African petroleum powerhouse.

Environmental stewardship is also central to NP (SL)’s operations. The company actively promotes eco-friendly LPG (cooking gas) to reduce reliance on biomass fuels, contributing to climate change mitigation. In addition, its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs have supported critical projects, from funding a water facility for the National Fire Force in Kissy to backing healthcare initiatives like the Burns Unit at Connaught Hospital and providing aid during public health emergencies and natural disasters.

Since its transformation from a British Petroleum branch in the 1950s to becoming a fully indigenous company in 1996 and later rebranding in 2011, NP (SL) has grown into a symbol of Sierra Leonean resilience, innovation and excellence. True to its slogan, “1st for Customer Care,” the company continues to drive national progress while expanding its influence across the sub-region.

Looking ahead, NP (SL) remains steadfast in its role as the backbone of Sierra Leone’s energy supply and a catalyst for regional integration; a petroleum brand built by Sierra Leoneans, for Sierra Leone and beyond.

Eight Die in Ghana Military Helicopter Crash, Including Two Cabinet Ministers

August 7, 2025

Persons Onboard Crashed Military Helicopter — All Confirmed Dead

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Ghana has been plunged into mourning following a military helicopter crash in the Ashanti Region that claimed the lives of eight people, including Defence Minister Edward Omane Boamah and Environment, Science and Technology Minister Ibrahim Muhammed on Wednesday August 6, 2025.

The Ghana Armed Forces confirmed that the Z-9 military helicopter departed Accra at about 9:00 a.m. GMT bound for Obuasi but lost radar contact en route. The wreckage was discovered near Adansi, with no survivors among the three crew members and five passengers.

Also killed in the crash were Alhaji Muniru Limuna, acting Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Agriculture Minister; Samuel Sarpong, Vice-Chairman of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC); and Samuel Aboagye, a former NDC parliamentary candidate.

President John Mahama, describing the tragedy as “a great national loss,” ordered flags to fly at half-mast nationwide and suspended his official engagements for the day. “We extend our deepest condolences to the families of our comrades and the servicemen who died in service to the country,” Chief of Staff Julius Debrah said in a statement.

The late Defence Minister Boamah, a former Communications Minister and presidential spokesperson, was appointed in February 2025 and had been steering Ghana’s defence policy amid growing regional security concerns. Environment Minister Murtala Muhammed, also appointed in February, was a vocal advocate for sustainable development and environmental reforms.

Ghana has so far avoided direct attacks from Sahel-based armed groups operating in neighbouring Mali and Burkina Faso, but the government has remained vigilant over potential cross-border threats. The crash has raised fresh concerns about the safety and maintenance of military aircraft.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the accident, but no preliminary findings have been released. The sudden deaths of the two ministers leave critical vacancies in President Mahama’s cabinet, posing immediate challenges to governance at a time of heightened regional security risks.

Full List of Persons Onboard Crashed Military Helicopter — All Confirmed Dead:

– Dr. Edward Omane Boamah – Minister for Defence

– Dr. Alhaji Murtala Muhammed – MP for Tamale Central, Minister for Environment, Science & Technology

– Alhaji Muniru Mohammed – Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator

– Dr. Samuel Sarpong – Vice Chairman of the NDC

– Samuel Aboagye – Former Parliamentary Candidate

– Sqn. Leader Peter Bafemi Anala

– Flying Officer, Twum Ampadu

– Sgt. Ernest Addo Mensah

Ghana mourns a national tragedy. All flags are to be flown at half-mast.

ICPNC Urges Political Parties to Emulate SLPP’s Peaceful and Inclusive Delegates Conference

August 6, 2025

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC) has on August 4, 2025 lauded the smooth execution of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) National Delegates Conference, which took place on July 30-31, 2025, at the Bintumani Conference Centre.

The lead-up to the event faced hurdles, including reported cases of incitement and divisive remarks from party members. The ICPNC voiced concerns over these issues and called on the SLPP leadership to tackle them to protect national peace and stability.

Nevertheless, the conference proceeded peacefully and orderly, showcasing a dedication to democratic values. The ICPNC applauded all involved, including the SLPP leadership, delegates, and members, for their role in maintaining a non-violent and constructive political atmosphere.

Congratulations were extended to the elected officials, while those who were not successful were encouraged to stay engaged and patient, with the promise of future leadership opportunities. The ICPNC emphasized that Sierra Leone’s democratic advancement and national growth depend on peaceful political involvement at all levels, citing the SLPP conference as a model for promoting unity and stability through dialogue and democratic practices.

The commission urged all political parties to adopt similar standards of peace and inclusivity in their internal affairs. Upholding peace is vital to Sierra Leone’s progress and prosperity, and the ICPNC encouraged citizens to remain committed to fostering harmony and unity daily.

“We Are Here to Deliver”: Babadi Kamara Sets Ambitious SLFA Agenda

August 6, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) has ushered in a new era of leadership with the decisive election of Babadi Kamara as President, following a peaceful, transparent and democratic election held in Lungi on Saturday August 2, 2025.

Babadi Kamara secured an overwhelming 43 votes, defeating his nearest rivals Aminata Bangura (11 votes) and Umaru Bah (1 vote). The election was supervised by both international and national stakeholders, including representatives from FIFA (Ahmed Harrh & Mohamed Elshawaby), WAFU Zone A Executive Director Mapathe Gaye, Sierra Leone’s Minister of Sports Madam Augusta James-Teima and NSA Executive Director Dr. Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai.

In his victory speech, Babadi Kamara hailed the moment as a turning point for Sierra Leone football, stating, “Football is the real winner today.” He expressed deep gratitude to delegates, supporters and his campaign team for placing their trust in his leadership.

“You voted for action, not politics as usual,” Babadi Kamara told delegates. “There has never been a more humbling moment in my life. I don’t feel victorious, I feel responsible.”

The newly elected SLFA Executive is considered one of the most geographically inclusive in the Association’s history. The full list of elected officials includes:

Vice President 1: Alie Badara Tarawallie
Vice President 2: Prince Saquee
Women’s Representative: Haja Ramatulai Kamara
Executive Members: Kweku Melvin Sheldon Lisk and Mohamed Sorie Jalloh

Babadi Kamara also paid emotional tribute to his family, supporters and football mentors. He mentioned his son Bashir, who turned one on the day of the election and prayed for the recovery of veteran football figure Pa Alie Commoner Kargbo.

The President-Elect used the occasion to outline his priorities for reform, accountability and the professionalization of football in Sierra Leone.

“In Sierra Leone, football is not just a sport ; it is a national unifier,” he said. “When football wins, Sierra Leone wins.”

He criticized past mismanagement, citing the disruption of the Premier League to accommodate unofficial overseas trips and delays in prize money payments to Bo Rangers and Bhantal FC.

“That chapter is closed,” Babadi Kamara declared. “We are here to fix what has been broken.”

Babadi Kamara is widely credited for transforming Bo Rangers FC into a domestic football powerhouse. Under his leadership, the club won three Sierra Leone Premier League titles, one FA Cup and two Community Shields in just four years.

Promising to bring that same focus and discipline to the national stage, Babadi Kamara emphasized his commitment to transparency, structure and inclusive governance.

“My name means something to me and I will protect it through discipline and action,” he stressed.

He further revealed that the Government of Sierra Leone currently spends over $300,000 per match on Leone Stars and promised to ensure better returns on such investments through strategic planning and performance.

Calling for national unity, Babadi Kamara reminded Sierra Leoneans that “Leone Stars belongs to every citizen regardless of region, ethnicity or political belief.” He emphasized the need to stop treating political rivals as enemies and urged all stakeholders to work together to develop the game.

In his closing remarks, Babadi Kamara appealed for peace, humility and dedication from fans and football authorities alike.

“Let us return home peacefully. Let’s rebuild our football together. We have the potential, and we will realize it.”

With the SLFA elections now concluded, attention turns to the new administration’s ability to implement structural reforms and raise the national game to new heights, including the long-term ambition of making Sierra Leone a regular contender at the Africa Cup of Nations.

“God has done it for Sierra Leone football today,” Babadi Kamara affirmed. “The habits that held this sport back for years; those are behind us.”

SLAJ Raises Alarm Over G8 Media Licensing Delay, Truth Media Suspension

August 6, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In its ongoing transition process, the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has embarked on a series of high-level courtesy visits to key partners in the media and communications sector. Led by Immediate Past President Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, popularly known as “De Monk,” the delegation formally introduced newly elected President Alhaji Manika Kamara and members of the incoming National Executive to key Government institutions.

The delegation’s first stop was the Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MoICE), where they met with Minister Chernor Bah at his Youyi Building office in Freetown. In his remarks, Ahmed Sahid Nasralla thanked the Minister for his support during his tenure and emphasized the importance of continued collaboration with the new SLAJ leadership.

“SLAJ has had a very productive and professional relationship with the Ministry over the last seven years,” Ahmed Sahid Nasralla said, referencing key achievements such as the repeal of the Criminal Libel Law, the hosting of the Media Investment Conference and the establishment of the National Fund for Public Interest Media (NaFPIM).

Ahmed Sahid Nasralla also used the occasion to present SLAJ’s official position paper advocating for the inclusion of a dedicated Chapter 12 in the country’s revised constitution. The proposed chapter seeks to enshrine press freedom and freedom of expression as fundamental constitutional rights. He urged the Minister to support the proposal, which has already been submitted to the Attorney General and Minister of Justice.

Newly elected SLAJ President Alhaji Manika Kamara echoed that appeal and expressed gratitude to Minister Chernor Bah for the Ministry’s longstanding support to the media.

“We commend the efforts this Government has made to empower the media,” Alhaji Manika Kamara stated. “We look forward to deepening that partnership and believe that Chapter 12 will be a significant milestone in strengthening press freedom and professionalism in Sierra Leone.”

Responding, Minister Chernor Bah praised Ahmed Sahid Nasralla for his leadership during what he described as a politically sensitive period and congratulated Alhaji Manika Kamara on his election.

“You’ve led SLAJ with integrity and balance, and that is commendable,” Minister Chernor Bah said. “We are committed to continuing our collaboration with SLAJ and we urge you to keep engaging stakeholders as you advocate for Chapter 12. The promotion of press freedom is a win for all of us.”

Minister Chernor Bah also announced that President Julius Maada Bio had signed off on the appointment of new commissioners for the Independent Media Commission (IMC), an effort that SLAJ had long supported.

The SLAJ delegation also visited the Independent Media Commission (IMC) and the National Telecommunications Authority (NaTCA), continuing their introductions and reinforcing partnerships.

At the IMC, Chairman Joseph Egbenda Kapuwa Esq. congratulated the new executive and emphasized the importance of unity and wisdom in leading SLAJ.

“It takes divine guidance to lead an institution like SLAJ. We trust this new leadership will maintain the values of the association and advance responsible journalism,” he said.

At NaTCA, Director General Amara Brewah welcomed the delegation and pledged continued collaboration, noting that the Authority remained committed to supporting the media’s growth and regulatory environment.

During the visits, SLAJ President Alhaji Manika Kamara raised serious concerns over recent developments involving Truth Media and G8 Media. He noted that the suspension of Truth Media’s license and delays in the spectrum allocation for G8 Media could undermine progress made in enhancing media freedom.

“These issues threaten to undo the achievements we’ve made in recent years,” Alhaji Manika Kamara warned. “We are calling for fair and prompt resolutions that uphold media rights while respecting regulatory processes.”

In response, Minister Chernor Bah and NaTCA DG Amara Brewah clarified that Truth Media’s suspension was linked to unpaid license fees and renewal issues, while G8 Media was still on a pending list awaiting spectrum allocation. Both officials assured SLAJ that the matters were being actively addressed and were nearing resolution.

SLAJ also paid a solidarity visit to Truth Media, where they engaged co-owner Amadu Lamrana Bah. He expressed frustration over the suspension but welcomed the reassurances provided by the Government and said he was willing to work toward a resolution.

The series of visits concluded with the presentation of appreciation awards to various institutions and individuals. Honourees included:

Minister Chernor Bah, for his role on the SLAJ Gender Advisory Panel;
The Ministry of Information and Civic Education, for consistent support to the media sector;
The Independent Media Commission (IMC) and NaTCA, for their critical roles in media regulation and development.

The engagements reaffirm SLAJ’s commitment to defending press freedom, strengthening institutional partnerships and fostering a media environment rooted in professionalism and accountability.