Minister of Information Chernor Bah Urges Development of Sierra Leone National Media Policy

Sierra Leone Minister of Information and Civic Education (MOIC) Chernor Bah, has called upon media stakeholders to collaborate in crafting a National Media Policy that will target wide spread pride and effectively address media development issues nationwide.

The Minister made this call while speaking at a one-day stakeholders’ engagement on the proposed National Media Policy held at the New Brookfields Hotel on Wednesday, 17th July 2024, also emphasized the importance of a cohesive and forward-looking policy framework for the media sector.

While delivering his statement, Francis Sowa, Policy Consultant overseeing the process with support from UNDP, highlighted the extensive consultations undertaken across the country. He acknowledged the foundational work initiated by late Prof. Mbayoh and expressed confidence in presenting a comprehensive policy draft for stakeholder review.

Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), affirmed the important role of the National Media Policy in solidifying media achievements.

He cited collaborative efforts such as the National Action Plan, SLAJ Media Manifesto, and Media Gender Policy as critical milestones in advancing media development.

He underscored the media’s achievements under current government, including legislative reforms like the repeal of Part 5 of the 1965 Public Order Act, new Independent Media Commission Act, and enactment of regulations promoting media freedoms and access to information.

Highlighting ongoing advocacy, Nasralla noted the media’s engagement with MOICE to integrate proposals initiated during the previous administration of President Koroma to include a chapter 12 on the media into the Constitutional Review process.

“We advocate for legislated enactment of subvention; it should not merely be a promise but a legal safeguard,” Nasralla emphasized, reflecting the media’s aspirations for sustainable support.

Minister Chernor Bah reiterated his commitment to fostering robust and independent media landscape, affirming his role as a steadfast ally to media interests. He stressed prioritizing an environment that upholds media independence and responsible journalism.

Stakeholders from the Western Rural and Urban Areas provided crucial feedback on the draft policy, ensuring diverse perspectives before its finalization.