The President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), Alhaji Manika Kamara, has called for stronger support and greater opportunities for women in the media sector as Sierra Leone joined the rest of the world to commemorate International Women’s Day 2026.

In a statement marking the occasion, Kamara congratulated women and girls across Sierra Leone for their resilience, achievements, and vital contributions to national development, while urging renewed commitment to promoting equality and justice.

He referenced this year’s global theme, “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls,” describing it as a powerful reminder that despite progress made over the years, many women still face barriers to full participation in leadership, economic life, access to justice, and decision-making.

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Kamara noted that in Sierra Leone, women remain the backbone of communities, playing key roles in family life, economic activities, education, healthcare, and the promotion of peace and democracy. However, he acknowledged that many women continue to face structural inequalities that hinder them from fully realizing their potential.

Focusing on the media sector, the SLAJ President highlighted the challenges faced by women journalists, including demanding work environments, societal expectations, harassment, discrimination, and limited leadership opportunities. He stressed that the resilience and dedication of women journalists deserve both recognition and tangible support.

Kamara revealed that SLAJ has taken deliberate steps to promote gender equality within the profession. He pointed to the introduction of the first-ever Gender Equality Policy for the media sector in Sierra Leone, launched during the Association’s previous leadership with support from the Embassy of Ireland in Sierra Leone and the SLAJ Gender Advisory Panel.

Building on that foundation, he said the Association continues to implement initiatives aimed at empowering women journalists. With support from the European Union through BBC Media Action, about 75 women journalists have been trained in Public Financial Management reporting in collaboration with the Budget Advocacy Network.

In addition, more than 60 women journalists are currently benefiting from digital media literacy training at Limkokwing University, equipping them with skills to effectively navigate the evolving digital media landscape.

Kamara further noted that SLAJ has been encouraging the election and appointment of more women into leadership roles within the Association. He also commended the work of Women in the Media Sierra Leone (WIMSAL) for its continued advocacy and leadership in advancing the interests of women in the media sector.

He emphasized that a strong and credible media sector requires the full participation and leadership of women.

The SLAJ President also reminded journalists of their broader responsibility to society, urging media practitioners to challenge harmful stereotypes, amplify the voices of women and girls, and highlight the contributions of women whose stories often remain untold, particularly those in rural and marginalized communities.

He paid tribute to women journalists across Sierra Leone who continue to report with courage, professionalism and integrity, noting that their work strengthens democracy and enriches the country’s media landscape.

Kamara concluded by stressing that empowering women is not only a matter of fairness but also essential for national development. He called on all stakeholders to translate commitments into action so that every woman and girl in Sierra Leone can enjoy their rights, access justice and reach their full potential.

He wished women across the country a happy International Women’s Day.