Minister of Information Shares Government Plans on Media Freedom and Privacy at National Policy Dialogue

Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, has shared the government’s ongoing plans to support press freedom, protect privacy, and improve access to public information during a national meeting held in Freetown.

The event was organised by Paradigm Initiative and the Media Reform Coordinating Group, bringing together government officials, media workers, civil society groups, university experts, and international organisations. They came together to talk about how Sierra Leone can manage online laws and technology while also protecting people’s rights and freedoms.

Minister Bah, who gave the main speech, said that new laws and policies being developed under President Julius Maada Bio’s leadership are meant to help build a more open and democratic society. He said the changes will help more people take part in national issues, express their views freely, and get the information they need.

He announced that two important national policy documents, the Media and Information Policy and the Records and Archives Policy, have already been presented to Cabinet. These policies were created after talking with people across the country. They are expected to improve how the government manages news, public records, and other information.

Minister Bah said Sierra Leone is already making progress. He pointed to the removal of the criminal libel law and the country’s better ranking on the World Press Freedom Index as proof that things are moving in the right direction.

He also explained that the Ministry is working hard to share information more openly. This includes regular press briefings, meetings with citizens, and updates during public emergencies. He said these efforts help people stay informed and build trust between the government and the public.

However, he also talked about some of the challenges the media is facing in today’s digital world. He said that when news is rushed and not properly checked, it can lead to confusion and loss of trust. He called for better support for journalists, including more training and recognition for honest reporting.

The Minister also shared that the Data Protection Policy and Bill, which are almost complete, will help protect people’s personal information. He said these new rules will make sure both journalists and the public are treated fairly when it comes to privacy and the right to information.

As the meeting ended, Minister Bah encouraged everyone, government, civil society, media, and the public, to continue working together to build a future where technology is used in a way that is safe, open, and fair for all.