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Sierra Leone’s Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor A. Bah, visited the Sierra Leone High Commission in London, where he met with High Commissioner Dr. Morie Komba Manyeh and the diplomatic mission’s staff.
The meeting focused on bolstering ties between Sierra Leone and the UK, as well as discussing the ministry’s efforts to improve public access to information and combat misinformation.
Head of Chancery Witson Yankuba welcomed the minister and highlighted the High Commission’s role in preparing for key international events, including CHOGM 2024, and enhancing Sierra Leone’s cultural and economic relations. High Commissioner Manyeh commended Bah for his recent appointment as a Desmond Tutu Fellow and praised President Julius Maada Bio for empowering young, dynamic ministers. He noted that despite constraints, the mission is working tirelessly to fulfill its mandate.
Minister Bah outlined his ministry’s priorities, stressing the importance of making information accessible in languages familiar to the public, moving away from the reliance on English in official communications. He also addressed the challenge of fake news, particularly from the diaspora, emphasizing the need to counter misinformation with accurate reports.
Bah cited local egg production as an example, explaining that consumers often opt for imported eggs due to a lack of awareness about the health benefits of local products. He also raised concerns about the impact of misinformation, urging stronger public engagement to dispel harmful propaganda.
In his speech, Bah touched on other national issues, including the upcoming census and constitutional review, which will require a referendum. He praised President Bio for advancing free speech, eliminating the death penalty, and implementing the “Safe Motherhood” initiative to reduce maternal deaths.
The session concluded with a vote of thanks from Consular Section head Christopher Bockarie, who praised Bah’s work. The visit was marked by warm applause, underscoring the productive discussions aimed at Sierra Leone’s progress.
