NP (SL) Energy Pass Card Ushers in a New Era of Cashless Fueling Across Sierra Leone

September 6, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP (SL) Ltd has long been recognized as the leading petroleum company in the country, largely due to its unwavering commitment to customer care and satisfaction. As part of its strategic focus on service delivery, the company is leveraging the latest innovations and technological advancements to streamline operations, creating a seamless experience that benefits both the company and its customers.

Understanding that customers are the cornerstone of their business, Management of NP (SL) places a high premium on ensuring that all transactions are conducted in a customer-friendly atmosphere. This emphasis on positive customer experiences is a key factor in the company’s ongoing success and its ability to stand out in the competitive petroleum industry.

Central to NP (SL)’s strategy is a rapid move towards digital transformation, driven by increasing demand for petroleum products amid population growth and industrial expansion.

One of the company’s groundbreaking innovations is the recent launch of the pilot phase of its Energy Pass Card, an advanced smart card designed to modernize the fueling process and promote a cashless environment.

The Energy Pass Card offers several benefits to customers, including real-time fuel balance updates, nationwide access and flexibility. It is equipped with both online and offline functionality and integrates advanced security measures to ensure that every transaction is secure. Additionally, customers receive instant SMS notifications for each transaction, enhancing transparency and accountability. This initiative aligns with NP (SL)’s broader strategy of leveraging digital technology to enhance operational performance, reduce human error and improve efficiency.

It must be underscored that in a highly competitive industry, NP (SL)’s proactive approach to digitalization sets it apart. The company’s transition to a cashless system not only boosts operational efficiency but also reinforces its position as Sierra Leone’s leading fuel distributor. The Energy Pass Card, part of the company’s “FUBU” (For Us, By Us) initiative, represents a significant step towards a cashless economy with its user-friendly design and robust security features, including One-Time Passwords (OTPs).

Prior to the introduction of the Energy Pass Card, NP (SL) had already demonstrated its commitment to innovation with the launch of the NP Smart Card. This card, embedded with a memory chip, allows customers to conduct safe, cashless transactions by pre-loading funds, which are automatically deducted during fuel purchases. The card is a secure and convenient tool for customers, providing budgetary control and reducing the need for cash transactions.

In addition to its petroleum products, NP (SL) diversified its offerings with the introduction of gas cookers under the brand name NP Gas. Available at various Filling Stations, NP Gas has been praised for being cooking-friendly, safe and long-lasting manufactured in different cylinder sizes all at affordable prices.

One of NP (SL)’s greatest strengths is its strong network of contacts with oil-producing countries, which ensures the timely purchase and delivery of petroleum products. This proactive approach has earned the company high commendations, as it helps stabilize fuel prices, reduce transport costs and mitigate the impact of price fluctuations on the broader economy.

Despite the challenges posed by global disruptions such as the Russian-Ukraine war, NP (SL) continues to navigate these difficulties with resilience, ensuring that petroleum products remain available and accessible to customers.

NP (SL)’s remarkable success is further underscored by its status as an entirely indigenous company, owned by Sierra Leoneans. The company’s origin story is a testament to its local roots: it was established by 35 Sierra Leoneans who pooled together their end-of-service benefits from British Petroleum (BP) to purchase shares and create what has now become a thriving enterprise with branches in Liberia, Guinea, Ivory Coast and The Gambia.

A shining example of the effective implementation of the Local Content Policy, NP (SL) employs nearly all Sierra Leoneans in its operations, ensuring that local talents are fully utilized. This approach not only contributes to revenue generation and job creation but also strengthens the company’s ties to the communities it serves.

As NP (SL) continues to leverage cutting-edge technology to optimize its service delivery, its ongoing commitment to innovation, customer care and local empowerment ensures that it will remain a leader in Sierra Leone’s petroleum industry for years to come.

Health Ministry to Administer Free Hepatitis B Vaccines to Over 355,000 Newborns

September 4, 2024

By Ibrahim Sorie Koroma, Senior Health Education Officer – HEP/MoH

The Government of Sierra Leone, in collaboration with the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) within the Ministry of Health and its partners, has announced an ambitious plan to administer free Hepatitis B vaccines to over 355,000 newborns in 2025. This initiative will involve distributing more than 457,000 doses of the vaccine, which will be given to infants within the first 24 hours of birth.

The plan was detailed during a recent stakeholders’ meeting in Freetown. Dr. Desmond Maada Kangbai, Programme Manager for the Expanded Programme on Immunization, outlined the primary goal of this vaccination campaign: to significantly reduce the prevalence of Hepatitis B infection among children under five years old. This effort is part of a broader global target to eliminate the disease by 2030.

Dr. Kangbai emphasized that the campaign aims to achieve a 95% vaccination rate among newborns, which will help prevent perinatal transmission of the Hepatitis B virus. Additionally, the initiative will integrate the Hepatitis B Birth Dose vaccine into Sierra Leone’s national immunization schedule, which is expected to improve coverage for other vaccines, such as BCG, at birth. This move is designed to mitigate the risks of Hepatitis B-related morbidity and mortality in young children.

Highlighting the vaccine’s efficacy, Dr. Kangbai noted that it is 98% effective in preventing Hepatitis B infection and associated liver cancer. The vaccination series includes the initial dose given at birth and two subsequent doses administered as part of the Pentavalent (Penta) conjugate vaccine. This regimen ensures protection ranging from 98% to 100% against Hepatitis B, with immunity lasting at least 20 years, and potentially for life.

The EPI Manager also pointed out that the vaccine is prequalified by the World Health Organization (WHO), which recommends administering the first dose of the Hepatitis B vaccine as soon as possible after birth, preferably within 24 hours. This recommendation is supported by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which advocates for the birth dose prior to hospital discharge.

Dr. Kangbai provided an update on the disease’s global impact, noting that Africa accounts for 70% of Hepatitis B infections. By 2021, only 14 out of 47 African countries had integrated a routine birth dose of the vaccine, with only 18% of African infants receiving the birth dose in 2022.

“Hepatitis B vaccination of infants is a crucial component of the Global Health Sector Strategy on Viral Hepatitis 2016-2021, endorsed by WHO. It supports the UN Sustainable Development Goal of eliminating viral hepatitis as a major public health threat by 2030,” Dr. Kangbai stated.

He concluded by projecting that high coverage with the Hepatitis B birth dose, followed by at least two additional doses, could prevent 710,000 deaths among children born between 2020 and 2030, with 78% of these children being in Africa.

Shri Gurudwara Sahib Awards Baba Guru Nanak Scholarships to 172 Pupils in Lumley & Its Environs

September 4, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a significant event held on September 1, 2024, Shri Gurudwara Sahib Sierra Leone Limited awarded its esteemed Baba Guru Nanak Scholarship Package to 172 pupils from Lumley and surrounding areas. The ceremony, held at the Gurudwara Sahib Temple, was attended by local dignitaries, sponsors and community members.

Delivering the keynote address, Mohinder Bir Singh Sachdeva, known as Pa Jetty, CEO of Jetty Trading Company and Head of the Scholarship Package highlighted the importance of the scholarship program, which supports students from over 68 private schools in Lumley and its environs with financial assistance for school fees and study materials for the entire academic year.

He emphasized that the scholarship is not just financial aid but an investment in the future of the pupils, reflecting the educational values of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.

Pa Jetty also mentioned the Gurudwara Sahib’s broader community efforts, including its response during the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing initiatives such as supporting the Sick Pikin Project and the offering of weekly free meals. He urged the scholarship recipients to use their education responsibly and contribute positively to their communities.

Earlier, Abdulai Bah, Head of the Baba Guru Nanak Scholarship Committee, thanked Pa Jetty and the Committee members for their efforts. He outlined the criteria for scholarship eligibility, noting that students must achieve at least 60% in their exams to maintain their scholarship status. He also highlighted challenges faced by schools, particularly those lacking proper accounting systems such as Bank Accounts and advised parents to choose affordable schools for their children.

Isatu Konjor, representing the parents of scholarship beneficiaries, publicly thanked Shri Gurudwara Sahib Sierra Leone for their significant support in covering school fees. She praised the organization’s role in enhancing the children’s education and pledged that parents will closely monitor their children’s academic progress. She also expressed gratitude to the Committee for their consistent support from primary through secondary school, acknowledging their vital contribution to the children’s success. Despite not having met the Committee members personally, Isatu Konjor emphasized the profound impact of their assistance, which has been a beacon of hope for many families.

Elaborating on the impact of the support, she pointed out that it came at a critical time when it was most needed adding that the children’s education and well-being have significantly improved due to Shri Gurudwara Sahib Sierra Leone Limited’s intervention, enabling them to achieve better results and overall performance in their studies.

Charge d’Affaires of India High Commission, Neeraj Kumar Saini, praised the Gurudwara Sahib’s initiative and encouraged pupils to set and pursue their life targets or goals diligently. He advised them to focus on their targets in order to achieve their dreams to the fullest maintaining that it is possible that some of the beneficiaries will become future Ministers, doctors, lawyers and even Heads of State.

Neeraj Kumar Saini emphasized the need for the pupils to seriously concentrate on their academic work further advising the parents to ensure that their children live up to expectation of scoring 60% in their school work so that they will continue to benefit from the scholarship scheme.

Prominent Indian businessman Pa Balani shed light on the growth of the scholarship scheme for underprivileged school children. Reflecting on the initiative’s success, he noted that increased sponsorship, prayers and support have significantly raised the number of recipients, raising concerns about the adequacy of the current venue. He suggested that a larger venue might be necessary in future years if this trend continues.

Pa Balani, a key sponsor, acknowledged that many recipients this year had previously benefited from the scholarship. While he expressed commitment to ongoing support, he also indicated that it won’t be possible to include more additional students this year. He urged parents to stay vigilant about their children’s academic performance and discipline.

Emphasizing the value of education, he also encouraged recipients to make the most of their opportunities and to remember their roots by helping others in the future. He also highlighted that some students’ attendance has declined due to financial difficulties faced by their parents, who sometimes prioritize immediate economic needs over education. Pa Balani cautioned that sending children to fend in order to support families could undermine the long-term benefits of their education.

He concluded by calling on parents to closely monitor and support their children’s educational progress.

Harish Agnani, Head of the Choithram Group of Companies and Honorary Consul of Norway and Sweden to Sierra Leone, lauded Shri Gurudwara Sahib Sierra Leone for its extensive humanitarian efforts. In his commendation, Agnani highlighted the organization’s initiatives, including sending sick children abroad for medical treatment and providing assistance to the needy.

Harish Agani emphasized that education is the most valuable gift one can offer, asserting that while money and material possessions may be fadeay, education remains a lifelong asset. He encouraged students to diligently pursue their studies to benefit from scholarship opportunities and urged parents to support their children’s educational endeavors. The Honorary Consul underscored the pivotal role of parents in guiding and motivating their children towards academic success.

The annual Baba Guru Nanak Scholarship has once again made a significant impact, providing recipients with crucial educational support. This year’s scholarship package included partial or full coverage of academic fees, school bags filled with supplies and 250 Leones for uniform expenses.

It must be noted that the scholarship reflects the Gurudwara Sahib’s ongoing commitment to education and community welfare, serving as a vital source of hope for many pupils and parents. E

stablished in honor of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism over 500 years ago in Punjab, North India, the Baba Guru Nanak Scholarship embodies the core values of Sikhism, equality, social justice, service to humanity and religious tolerance.

Sikhism, the fifth-largest religion in the world, emphasizes learning and seeking truth, principles that the scholarship aims to uphold by supporting pupils in their educational journeys.

Ministry of Trade Clears SABCO Sardine Company of Expired Product Allegation

September 4, 2024

By Esther Wright

A high-level delegation from the Ministry of Trade and Industry, on August 27, 2024 led by Deputy Minister, Fatmata Kargbo, visited SABCO Sardine Company in Jui at the East End Freetown, in response to social media reports alleging that the company had improperly disposed of expired sardines.

The visit included key figures such as Paul Kaisam, Executive Director of the Sierra Leone Standards Bureau; Johor Bah, his Deputy, Lawrence Bassie, CEO of the National Consumers Protection Commission (NCPC) and representatives from the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, among others.

The inspection was prompted by public outcry and online rumors that SABCO Sardine Company had discarded expired sardines at the Bomeh dumping site. The Ministry aimed to address these concerns and verify the accuracy of the claims.

During a roundtable discussion with SABCO’s Management, Deputy Minister , Fatmata Kargbo highlighted the company’s significant role in supporting President Bio’s “Feed Salone” initiative, which is part of his Big Five priorities. She commended SABCO for its contributions to the country’s development since its factory commissioning in February.

SABCO’s Secretary, Miss Zainab, clarified that the materials dumped at Bomeh were not expired sardines but waste products such as fish heads, scales and tails. She emphasized that this disposal process adheres to City Council regulations and has been approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other relevant bodies.

Miss Zainab expressed her surprise at the misinformation circulating about the company, insisting that SABCO has consistently engaged with the EPA to ensure proper waste management.

Following the meeting, the Deputy Minister, Fatmata Kargbo and her team toured the SABCO facility. They observed the production process and were satisfied with the company’s adherence to safety and operational standards.

She thanked SABCO’s Management for their transparency and assured continued Government support also emphasizing the Ministry’s commitment to regularly monitoring the company’s operations to maintain public trust and safety.

It should be noted that the allegations reported stemmed from unsuccessful efforts to verify the information with SABCO Sardine Company officials. The claims were based on observations of the company’s vehicle at the Bomeh Dumping Site and the subsequent dumping activities. Despite repeated attempts to contact the company’s representatives for confirmation or comment, they did not respond to phone calls and failed to address the allegations.

Nasser Fellowship Alumni Joins African Union’s Youth Business Council

September 4, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The African Youth Business Council (AfYBC), under the African Union Commission, has announced the selection of Engineer Mohamed Osama, an alumnus of the Nasser Fellowship for International Leadership, as a founding member of its Executive Board. Osama, who also serves as the Technical and Technological Support Officer for the Global Solidarity Network, will represent the North Africa region on the newly formed Board.

The AfYBC Executive Board consists of twelve entrepreneurs under the age of forty from across Africa, representing the five regions and the African diaspora. The Council is the highest youth-led authority in the private sector at the continental level aiming to advocate for young entrepreneurs and promote a business-friendly environment within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Engineer Osama emphasized the critical role the Council plays in connecting young African entrepreneurs with opportunities in national and intra-African trade. He noted the Council’s commitment to addressing challenges such as insufficient financing, market dominance and regulatory hurdles that hinder youth-led entrepreneurship across the continent.

Osama’s career began with the Global Solidarity Network in 2021, where he gained experience in various leadership roles, including leading the technical support team for the Nasser Youth Movement and contributing to the Nasser International Leadership Scholarship program under the patronage of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. His expertise in information technology and entrepreneurship, highlighted by his founding of VOOG Network, a digital solutions company, earned him recognition at the continental level.

Hassan Ghazaly, founder of the Global Solidarity Network, praised Osama’s selection, noting that it reflects the capabilities of Egyptian youth in contributing to Africa’s economic future. He also commended the AfYBC’s efforts to integrate young entrepreneurs into the AfCFTA, emphasizing the importance of youth participation in shaping trade policies across the continent.

The new AfYBC Executive Office members will serve a two-year term from 2024 to 2026 and include prominent entrepreneurs from across Africa, such as Souleymane Nissaï Tourébour and Banny Jani Baki Fouziatou from West Africa and Hasnaa Farid from Morocco, representing North Africa alongside Mohamed Osama.

Jennifer Thompson Organization to Launch ‘Break the Silence: Stop Domestic Violence Now’ Campaign in Sierra Leone

September 4, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a bold move to combat domestic violence in Sierra Leone, the Jennifer Thompson Organization is launching a powerful new initiative titled: “Break the Silence: Stop Domestic Violence Now.” Through its Women Leading Change wing, the campaign aims to raise awareness about the devastating impact of domestic violence on individuals, families and communities across the country.

Domestic violence often thrives in silence, leaving countless victims feeling isolated and helpless. The campaign calls on survivors and allies to speak up against abuse and stand strong in the fight for justice and safety. The initiative seeks to empower victims through education, advocacy and community support, giving them the tools to reclaim their voices and lives.

“We believe that by breaking the silence, we can support survivors and build a stronger, safer Sierra Leone,” said Jennifer Thompson, founder of the organization. The campaign urges the public to join the movement, creating a future free from violence and ensuring a safer environment for all.

The “Break the Silence: Stop Domestic Violence Now” campaign arrives at a crucial time when domestic violence remains a critical issue in Sierra Leone. It seeks to raise awareness, empower survivors and foster community support. By encouraging open dialogue, the campaign aims to challenge the stigma surrounding domestic violence, helping survivors come forward and access support.

The initiative strengthens community networks by engaging local leaders and civil society to create a safety net for victims. Through advocacy, it pushes for legal reforms that protect victims and ensure accountability for perpetrators. Educational efforts targeting young people aim to prevent domestic violence by promoting healthy relationships.

Furthermore, the campaign contributes to breaking the silence around gender-based violence, advocating for cultural change and accountability. Overall, “Break the Silence” is poised to create lasting social cohesion, empowering communities and making Sierra Leone a safer place for all.

Acting Chief Justice Calls for Community-Based Approach to Combat Rising Crime in Bo

September 4, 2024

By Esther Wright

In a powerful address to over 200 inmates at the overcrowded Male Correctional Centre in Bo, Acting Chief Justice, Nicholas C. Browne-Marke, has on August 31, 2024 called on the community to embrace “community parenting” as a solution to the rising crime rate in the region.

The Chief Justice’s remarks came as he visited the facility, which was originally designed to house 80 inmates but now holds more than 240. Approximately 90% of the inmates are under the age of 30, raising significant concerns about the future of the young population in Sierra Leone.

“As a parent myself, it pains me to see so many young people behind bars,” Justice Browne-Marke said. “How can we talk about a future that belongs to the youth when so many are incarcerated?”

The Acting Chief Justice emphasized that the increasing involvement of young people in criminal activities is alarming. He called for a revival of community parenting, a traditional approach where the responsibility of raising children extends beyond individual families to the entire community.

Highlighting the urgent need for action, Justice Browne-Marke noted that the recent Prison Court exercise, which resulted in the release of over 100 inmates and the granting of bail to others, has not alleviated the problem. The Male Correctional Centre is once again overcrowded, underscoring the necessity for collaborative efforts from community leaders, paramount chiefs, religious figures and parents to address the crisis.

Chief Superintendent, David Kamara, Manager of the Correctional Centre, reported that the facility currently houses 249 inmates, including 66 on remand and 72 on trial. He acknowledged that without the recent Prison Court exercise, the numbers would be even higher. However, with new court facilities and a standby generator for electricity, the judicial process for trial and remand inmates is expected to proceed more efficiently.

Resident Judge Hon. Justice Abu Bakarr Sannoh, who also serves the Kenema district, informed the Chief Justice that many of the remand and trial inmates are on bail with flexible conditions. He pointed out that difficulty in meeting bail conditions are often due to the inmates’ lack of reliable sureties, as many are from outside Bo and came to the city for employment.

Local resident, Mohamed Sowa, praised the Chief Justice’s call for community parenting, highlighting the impact of illegal substances like Kush on community safety and child-rearing. “With the rise of harmful drugs, our communities have become unsafe for raising children, making the traditional community-based approach to parenting more important than ever,” Mohamed Sowa said.

The Acting Chief Justice’s call to action reflects a growing recognition that tackling crime and supporting youth requires a collective effort from all sectors of society.

Napoleon Koroma Unveils Transformative Diamond Fund Projects in Kono District

September 4, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a major move aimed at empowering local communities, Deputy Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Umaru Napoleon Koroma, alongside Deputy Minister of Local Government, Alfred Jamiru, inaugurated several development projects funded by mining revenues in Kono District on Saturday August 31, 2024. The initiative, known as the Diamond Area Community Development Fund (DACDF), represents a novel approach to ensuring that the benefits of mineral wealth directly reach the local population.

During the launch event, Deputy Minister Napoleon Koroma expressed his enthusiasm about the initiative, highlighting its alignment with President Julius Maada Bio’s broader development goals. “Our minerals are a divine gift and our Government believes in ensuring that the local communities reap the rewards of these natural resources,” Mines Deputy Minister stated. He further noted that President Bio had mandated the implementation of this project with utmost seriousness and transparency.

Napoleon Koroma also underscored the importance of responsible management of the funds by community leaders and assured that the Government would closely monitor the progress of the projects to ensure effective utilization of the resources.

The DACDF initiative is expected to bring tangible improvements to the Kono District, marking a new chapter in the equitable distribution of mineral wealth in the region.

SLAJ Pledges Support for IMC’s Media Register Clean-Up Initiative

September 4, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has pledged to support the Independent Media Commission (IMC) in its efforts to clean up the media register, following a significant meeting between the two bodies on August 27, 2024. The courtesy call, the first since Joseph Egbenda Kapuwa Esq. assumed the role of IMC Chairman, highlighted the urgent need for collaboration between the two influential media organizations to address pressing issues within the industry.

The IMC is currently poised to take action against media houses that have failed to re-register under the IMC Act of 2020. This includes outlets that have not renewed their annual registration or have not complied with penalties imposed by the IMC Complaints Committee. President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, had previously requested a delay in these actions, emphasizing the importance of balancing Press Freedom with adherence to the rule of law.

“I understand the IMC’s position on enforcing compliance with the IMC Act 2020,” Ahmed Sahid Nasralla stated during the meeting. “However, suspending a large number of active media outlets could raise concerns both locally and internationally regarding press freedom and our democratic credentials. SLAJ remains committed to press freedom and the rule of law, and we are eager to work with the IMC to find a fair resolution.”

The SLAJ President also raised several key issues, including the enforcement of minimum wage standards and social security contributions for media workers, the ongoing review of the IMC Act 2020 and the need for enhanced training for journalists.

“Despite existing regulations, reports indicate that some journalists are still being paid below the minimum wage,” he noted. “We must address this issue collectively. Additionally, our stance on journalist registration is clear: we believe the IMC should not have the power to register journalists directly. We need a thorough discussion on this matter.”

IMC Chairman, Joseph Egbenda Kapuwa, responded by thanking SLAJ for the constructive dialogue. He acknowledged the critical role SLAJ plays in the media landscape and emphasized the need for media institutions to be held accountable while respecting media freedom.

“While we support media freedom, we must ensure that media institutions are held accountable,” Joseph Egbenda Kapuwa stated. “Allowing non-compliance to persist undermines our regulatory responsibilities. We must enforce the law and ensure that media houses fulfill their commitments, such as paying their staff as promised.”

The IMC Chairman outlined the institution’s approach to cleaning up the media register, emphasizing a systematic process rather than immediate suspension of defaulting outlets. The IMC plans to address newspapers first, followed by radio stations, ensuring that affected entities have an opportunity to address any issues before further actions are taken.

On the issue of online media, Joseph Egbenda Kapuwa highlighted the need for clear regulations and registration procedures to ensure that online platforms receive the same protections and rights as traditional media outlets.

Regarding journalist registration, he stressed the importance of protecting the profession and ensuring that only qualified individuals are recognized as journalists. He also called for ongoing dialogue and education to address these challenges effectively.

“Proper registration is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the profession,” Joseph Egbenda Kapuwa said. “We need to ensure that all media practitioners and institutions operate within the law and are properly recognized.”

The IMC and SLAJ have committed to continuing their collaboration to address these issues and improve the media landscape in Sierra Leone.

SLAJ Advocates for Enhanced Journalist Registration to Combat Misrepresentation

September 4, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The leadership of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) on Tuesday, August 27, 2024 held a courtesy meeting with their counterparts at the Independent Media Commission (IMC). The key takeaway from the discussion was the urgent need for collaboration between these two major media organizations to initiate the reengineering process necessary to give the industry meaningful impact.

In a recent address, the President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, underscored the crucial need for proper registration of journalists to safeguard the integrity and credibility of the profession. The statement comes in response to growing concerns over the proliferation of individuals claiming to be journalists without legitimate credentials.

The SLAJ President highlighted that the evolving landscape of journalism, including the rise of bloggers and citizen journalists, necessitates rigorous measures to ensure that only true journalists are recognized and protected. The organization stressed that media registration is not merely a formality but a vital tool for verifying the authenticity of journalists.

“We must jealously guard our profession,” said President Ahmed Sahid Nasralla. “This isn’t just about rights; it’s about ensuring that those who claim to be journalists truly are. Many individuals claim to be journalists because they’ve done something somewhere, but they aren’t true journalists.”

SLAJ aims to create a scenario where journalists can proudly claim their registration status. The organization emphasized that media registration should be seen as a privilege rather than a material benefit, serving as a means of official recognition rather than a form of compensation.

The importance of proper registration extends beyond journalists to include photographers and other media practitioners. The Association noted the need for clear identification to manage the legal and technical aspects of image transmission, ensuring accurate representation of events and individuals.

SLAJ President also addressed concerns about the protection of its members. “When people register as a company, subscribers and members need to be identified,” he noted. “We already have records of SLAJ members and these individuals should be recognized as part of our professional community.”

The organization emphasized that registration is crucial not only for protection but also for maintaining credibility. “If you want to practice as a journalist, you should also have the opportunity to be recognized officially,” the President stated. “It’s not about censorship; it’s about proper registration and ensuring that all media practitioners are part of a recognized body.”

In light of these concerns, SLAJ is conducting consultations to open dialogue and address these issues comprehensively. The Association stressed the need for adherence to clear criteria for membership and the importance of avoiding the recruitment of individuals who do not meet those standards.

“We need to ensure that our membership is properly registered,” Ahmed Sahid Nasralla reiterated. “This isn’t something to frown upon; it’s about maintaining high standards within our profession.”

The SLAJ President also emphasized the importance of education and training to address these issues effectively and ensure that the Association continues to uphold its standards and protect its members.

As SLAJ moves forward, the organization remains committed to working together to safeguard the reputation of journalism and ensure that its members are recognized and respected within the industry.