President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, is embarking on a significant journey to Abuja, Nigeria, where he will be attending the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID) inaugural West African Journalism Innovation Conference (WAJIC’23).

The conference is scheduled to take place from the 24th to the 27th of July 2023.

Nasralla’s participation in the event will be marked by his involvement in a crucial panel discussion on “Regulations and Spaces for Press Freedom Advocacy” on Wednesday, 26th July 2023.

As an esteemed representative of the media fraternity in Sierra Leone, his insights and contributions are expected to shed light on the challenges faced by journalists in the region and the essential role of press freedom in a thriving democracy.

Accompanying President Nasralla from Sierra Leone are other distinguished figures in the field of journalism. Dr. Williette P. R. O. James, Chairperson of SLAJ’s Gender Advisory Panel, will be featured in a panel discussion centered around “Journalism Education in the 21st Century in West Africa.” Additionally, she will serve as a moderator for a panel session focused on “Innovative Trends in Journalism Practice – What are the Research Gaps?” Dr. James’ expertise will bring valuable insights into the evolving landscape of journalism education and the need for research-driven practices in the field.

Amadu Lamrana Bah, President of the Sierra Leone Reporters’ Union (SLRU), will also be among the Sierra Leonean delegates attending the conference. His presence is expected to provide an important perspective on the challenges and opportunities faced by reporters in the region.

The West African Journalism Innovation Conference (WAJIC) serves as an annual gathering that brings together journalists, media professionals, researchers, and stakeholders in the media industry from across West Africa. This year’s conference, themed “Accountability Journalism: Nurturing Innovation for a Sustainable Future,” aims to delve into innovative approaches and strategies to promote accountability, transparency, and sustainability within the media landscape of West Africa. With a focus on nurturing innovation, the conference seeks to foster a vibrant and responsible media ecosystem in the region.

During the four-day event, participants will engage in a series of discussions, workshops, and networking sessions to address the pressing issues and emerging challenges confronting journalism in West Africa. By sharing experiences, best practices, and research findings, attendees aim to pave the way for a stronger, more accountable, and sustainable media industry that can effectively serve the needs of the public and support democratic values in the region.