By Amin Kef (Ranger)
The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) brought together eminent personalities and members of the media to observe its Annual Iftar on March 29, 2024, with the focus on fostering peace and national cohesion as essential ingredients for the nation’s advancement.
At the elegant Radisson Blu in Aberdeen, Freetown, the Vice President of Sierra Leone, Dr. Mohammed Juldeh Jalloh, graced the occasion as a guest speaker. In his address to journalists and attendees, he underscored the importance of national unity, drawing from his extensive experience in various regions including Eastern Europe, Southern Africa, the Sahel, and West Africa. He reiterated that the state must be the principal driver of national cohesion, advocating for deliberate efforts and institutional frameworks to promote unity and address concerns of exclusion.
Dr. Jalloh highlighted the proactive steps Sierra Leone has taken, citing the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion and the National Youth Service as instrumental in fostering inclusion. He also challenged the media to shift the narrative of Sierra Leone from one of pessimism to optimism, thus promoting a progressive image of the nation.
SLAJ President Ahmed Sahid Nasralla welcomed all participants to the Iftar, emphasizing the significance of the event during the holy month of Ramadan as a time to enhance spiritual connection and communal bonds. He pointed out the alarming rise of division globally and stressed the need for reinforcing unity both as Sierra Leoneans and as part of the human family.
Nasralla highlighted the role of peace and national cohesion as foundations for a strong society and called for a renewed commitment to these values across various spheres of life. He thanked all involved, including Sheikh Umar Farouk Adam Bah and the Vice President, for their presence and contributions, as well as the SLAJ Iftar Committee for organizing the successful event.
The evening concluded with a collective aspiration for the blessings of Ramadan to extend to all contributors of the Iftar program. The SLAJ President echoed the words of Prophet Muhammad, urging all to “spread peace, share food and feed the hungry, and uphold family ties,” as he welcomed the attendees to an evening of reflection and camaraderie aimed at fostering societal harmony.
The SLAJ’s Annual Iftar event provided a platform for leaders and citizens to reflect on the power of unity and peace, setting a course for Sierra Leone’s future progress through collaboration and mutual respect.
