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The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has announced the receipt of its 2026 government subvention, amounting to SLE 2.7 million.
According to SLAJ, the annual subvention was first pledged by President Julius Maada Bio in 2018 as part of his administration’s commitment to media development. The Association noted that the funding has been provided consistently since then and is subject to independent audits conducted by Audit Service Sierra Leone.
SLAJ stated that the funds play a critical role in supporting its operations at both national and regional levels, strengthening affiliate bodies, and advancing initiatives aimed at promoting journalist safety, media freedom, and professional development.
The Association emphasized that its elected officials serve on a voluntary basis and do not receive salaries from the subvention. It also addressed recurring public concerns regarding its independence, stressing that it is not a media house and therefore does not control editorial policies or content produced by media organizations.
“Our strategic partnership with government is focused solely on strengthening the media sector, enhancing professionalism, and promoting ethical journalism,” SLAJ stated. “This does not compromise our role in defending press freedom, advocating for journalist safety, and holding institutions to account.”
Reaffirming its independence and integrity, SLAJ said its mandate is to create an enabling environment for journalists, while media houses remain responsible for investigating, reporting, and holding power to account. The Association further noted that membership remains voluntary, reflecting the diversity and dynamism of Sierra Leone’s media landscape.
SLAJ expressed appreciation to the Ministry of Information and Civic Education and the Ministry of Finance for their continued support and reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability, and service to the public interest.
