The Independent Media Commission (IMC) has taken a bold step toward regulating Sierra Leone’s growing online media landscape, following the successful conclusion of a two-day retreat held at the Wizzard Complex in Bo.

The retreat, which brought together media regulators, government officials, development partners, and members of the media, focused on drafting regulations to license and govern online media operations in the country.

The new framework aims to strengthen provisions in the IMC Act, ensuring responsible online media engagement that promotes peace, democracy, and accountability.

IMC Executive Secretary, Khalil Kallon, highlighted during the retreat that the growing influence of online platforms and the need for comprehensive regulations to address emerging challenges. He stressed that while freedom of expression remains a cornerstone of democracy, it must be exercised responsibly to prevent abuse and misinformation. “We must strike a balance between press freedom and accountability,” Kallon noted. “Our goal is to create regulations that protect the public while empowering responsible journalism.”

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Key stakeholders at the retreat echoed similar sentiments, including Alhaji Manika Kamara, President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), who commended the IMC for its leadership and the initiative to regulate the digital media space. He stressed on the need for ethical standards and accountability, adding that the current lack of oversight in the IMC Act has contributed to the proliferation of misinformation and disinformation online.

“Regulating the online space is not an attack on press freedom,” Kamara stated. “It is about protecting the integrity of information and ensuring that media professionals uphold ethical practices.”

Mawusi Durenu, Program Officer for Elections at International IDEA, pledged continued support for Sierra Leone’s media development, with focus on the importance of revising regulations ahead of the 2028 general elections. She pointed out that credible and responsible media play a crucial role in ensuring peaceful and transparent elections.

Also addressing participants, Andrew Saennie Kamara Esq., Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, described the initiative as timely. He noted that the rise of unregulated online platforms has fueled misinformation and, in some cases, public unrest. “Just as traditional media is regulated, online media and influencers also need a framework to operate responsibly,” Kamara said.

In his closing remarks, IMC Chairman Joseph Egbenda Kapuwa reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to safeguarding media freedom while promoting accountability. He underscored the IMC’s determination to develop enforceable guidelines that will help curb online abuses without stifling legitimate expression.

The draft regulations under review are expected to provide the IMC with enhanced powers to oversee online platforms and influencers, ensuring that the digital media space contributes positively to national development and democratic consolidation.

With the growing influence of social media in shaping public opinion, the IMC’s proactive approach marks an important step towards building a more responsible and professional online media environment in Sierra Leone.