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A recent study conducted by the Media Reform Coordinating Group (MRCG) has highlighted serious welfare challenges facing journalists in Sierra Leone, revealing that poor salaries, weak social security compliance, and unsafe workplace conditions continue to threaten media freedom and professional integrity.
The study examined conditions of service across radio, television, newspapers, and online media, focusing on salary trends, statutory compliance, and journalists’ awareness of key legal frameworks. Researchers employed a mixed-methods approach, combining an online questionnaire and semi-structured interviews with media owners and heads of organizations.
The questionnaire captured responses from 112 journalists approximately 7.9% of practitioners nationwide from all regions of Sierra Leone, including reporters, editors, and managers.
Findings from the study paint a concerning picture:
- Salary Trends: 25.9% of journalists reported never receiving a monthly salary, while 42% of those who are paid earn below the national minimum wage.
- Social Security Compliance: 47.3% of journalists are not registered with the National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT), and many media institutions fail to remit contributions or meet National Revenue Authority obligations.
- Legal Awareness: A significant number of journalists are unfamiliar with provisions of the Independent Media Commission (IMC) Act 2020, the NASSIT Act 2002, and the Minimum Wage Act 1997, limiting their ability to demand fair treatment.
- Workplace Conditions: Media houses often underpay staff, fail to provide benefits, and lack safety mechanisms, leaving journalists vulnerable while performing their duties.
The study notes that these systemic gaps in labor law enforcement and social security protections undermine journalistic independence and the quality of reporting in the country. Limited awareness of rights further compounds the problem, as many journalists are unable to advocate effectively for better conditions.
To address these challenges, the study recommends:
- Stronger enforcement of NASSIT, NRA, and IMC Act provisions.
- Capacity-building programs to educate journalists on labor rights and welfare laws.
- Transparent salary structures and welfare mechanisms within media organizations.
- Active advocacy by professional associations to lobby for improved compliance and protections.
The MRCG study concludes that the welfare of Sierra Leonean journalists remains precarious, with underpayment, lack of social security, and poor working conditions widespread. Coordinated efforts by government regulators, media owners, and journalist associations are needed to ensure fair treatment, compliance with statutory obligations, and the protection of media integrity and independence.
