By Amin Kef (Ranger)
In a move to bolster press freedom and media development, President Julius Maada Bio has announced a Le2.5 billion subvention for the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) for the 2025 financial year. This announcement was made during the Annual Presidential Media Cocktail at the Country Lodge Hotel in Freetown on December 10, 2024.
The event brought together an array of journalists, bloggers, media executives and Government officials, all gathered to witness the President’s reaffirmation of his administration’s commitment to press freedom. The highlight of the evening was the announcement of the increased subvention, which follows a steady financial boost for SLAJ since 2020, growing from Le200 million to Le1.5 billion in 2023 and 2024.
“For six years, I have not only fulfilled my promise on the annual subvention to SLAJ but have significantly increased this support each year,” President Bio declared, emphasizing his administration’s commitment to its 2023 Manifesto pledge to enhance media support.
With the theme: “Strengthening Press Freedom: A Shared Goal,” President Bio highlighted the vital role of the media in a democracy. “As journalists, your responsibility transcends merely reporting events; it shapes narratives, holds power to account and ensures that the voices of the marginalized and silenced are amplified,” he remarked. He further praised journalists as “the architects of our national story” and acknowledged their efforts in informing and enlightening the public.
President Bio’s administration has been lauded for advancing Sierra Leone’s position in global press freedom rankings. From 74th place in 2023 to 64th in 2024, Sierra Leone’s progress was attributed to legislative reforms, enhanced transparency and a secure environment for journalists. “Under my leadership, we have achieved significant advancements through progressive legal reforms that enhance, rather than hinder, journalistic work,” the President said, citing Sierra Leone’s 91% score on the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) scorecard for freedom of information.
It must be noted that the SLPP Government is also focused on media-related initiatives spearheaded by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education. One notable development is the validation of the National Media Policy, currently awaiting Cabinet approval. In addition, the establishment of the National Fund for Public Interest Media (NaFPIM-SL) has been announced, with support from the International Fund for Public Interest Media amounting to US$99,000, along with an additional US$50,000. President Bio pledged that the Government would match these contributions to strengthen the Fund.
Another critical step is the ongoing work on Sierra Leone’s Digital Migration Roadmap. The Government has appointed a consultant to oversee the transition to digital broadcasting, which is expected to expand opportunities for media innovation and audience engagement.
Throughout his address, President Bio urged journalists to continue promoting national unity, holding power accountable and amplifying the voices of marginalized communities. “Journalists must foster a plurality of perspectives and ensure inclusive discourse that supports our democracy,” he stated.
He also reflected on his administration’s handling of key national events, including Sierra Leone’s presidency of the United Nations Security Council and the signing of the US$480 million Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Energy Compact. “The media’s responsible reporting of these events has demonstrated its capacity to inform and unite the nation,” President Bio noted.
The President further discussed his Feed Salone initiative, which has mobilized over US$1 billion to boost rice cultivation and reduce the country’s reliance on food imports. “The Feed Salone initiative is a long-term program designed to stimulate economic growth, create jobs and ensure food security,” he said.
Concluding his address, President Bio made a passionate appeal for responsible journalism. “Let us advocate for a future where journalistic integrity flourishes, where the Press operates with unbridled freedom, and where every citizen’s right to information is guaranteed,” he said. He also called on reporters, editors and broadcasters to reflect Sierra Leoneans’ challenges and triumphs in their reporting.
Press Secretary, Yusuf Keketoma Sandy, commended the support of corporate sponsors such as Pavi Fort, Sierra Rutile, Orange SL, UBA, SLCB, Integrated Trade Services, Rokel Commercial Bank, Sierra Leone Brewery Limited, Capitol Fruit, Leone Rock Metal Group and J-Ban Group of Companies. “Your sponsorship reflects a shared belief in the importance of a robust media landscape,” Yusuf Sandy remarked.
SLAJ President Ahmed Sahid Nasralla lauded President Bio’s unwavering support for press freedom, referring to him as a “Champion of Free Speech,” a title previously conferred on the President by SLAJ. He acknowledged President Bio’s historic role in the repeal of the Criminal Libel Law in 2020a m, which according to him, was a milestone achievement for media freedom in Sierra Leone.
“For 50 years, we fought to repeal that law and it was under President Bio’s leadership that this goal was finally achieved,” Ahmed Sahid Nasralla said. He also highlighted the increase in SLAJ’s subvention from Le250 million to Le750 million annually, which supports SLAJ’s regional branches, staff salaries and operational expenses.
Despite challenges like economic constraints, online harassment of journalists and legal provisions within the Cybercrime Act, Ahmed Sahid Nasralla expressed optimism about Sierra Leone’s media landscape. “We must continue to push for legislative changes to protect media practitioners and secure SLAJ’s sustainability,” he emphasized.
Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, emphasized the transformative role of President Bio’s administration in Sierra Leone’s media sector. “Every President since independence promised to repeal the Criminal Libel Law, but none fulfilled that promise except President Bio,” Chernor Bah declared.
He praised the media’s evolution, highlighting the rise of bloggers and online platforms that play an influential role in public discourse. “Today, bloggers, digital content creators and social media influencers are part of this room, thanks to President Bio’s efforts to open the media space in an unprecedented way,” he said.
The Minister also referenced the Government’s 91% score on the MCC scorecard for Freedom of Information as a clear testament to President Bio’s commitment to transparency and media empowerment. “This cocktail is not just about celebration; it’s about recognizing the incredible progress we’ve made,” Chernor Bah added.
The event ended with a toast to “Unity, Freedom and Justice,” as President Bio wished attendees a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year. His Le2.5 billion subvention pledge, reaffirmation of press freedom and media reforms signal a significant step towards a sustainable and democratic media environment in Sierra Leone.
