Let us Use The Online Space as a Blessing to Our Nation And Not a Curse – Deputy Information Minister

Sierra Leone’s Deputy Minister of Information and Civic Education, Yusuf Keketoma Sandi Esq. has called on citizens to use the online space as a blessing to the Nation and not a curse.

He made the statement during his keynote address on the occasion of the International Day for Universal Access to Information commemorated at the Family Kingdom Resort, Aberdeen on the theme: “The importance of the online space for access to information”.

In his address, Deputy Minister Sandi reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to safeguarding the rights of every citizen to seek, receive, and impart information. He emphasized the crucial role that the online space plays in ensuring universal access to information, particularly in today’s digital age.

The Deputy Minister also highlighted Sierra Leone’s remarkable progress in freedom of information as compared to other countries.

“In many countries around the world, activists of right to access information have raised concerns around internet shutdowns, social media restrictions, closing of media outlets, employing outright censorship, banning journalists from attending press conferences and denying citizens access to public information.

“In Sierra Leone, our story is different and inspiring, more citizens have access to the internet, there are no restrictions on the use of social media, there is no media censorship, journalists are motivated and encouraged to attend Government Press Conferences, we have changed the medium of communication at the Press Conference from English to Krio so more citizens can understand, we have introduced sign language interpreters at weekly press conference to make it more inclusive and more citizens have access to public information. Under the leadership of President Julius Maada Bio, Sierra Leone is a shining star for access to information.”

Deputy Minister Sandi used the occasion to call on citizens to commit themselves to what he described as a sacred duty: “Citizens must not use the online space to spread disinformation and misinformation, to promote divisiveness, hate and violence, to preach bigotry, tribalism and political intolerance and above all to undermine the peace and national cohesion of our great country.”

He concluded his keynote address by encouraging citizens to exercise the right to access information with sincerity and desire to make Government more accountable, adding that Government would also discharge its obligation with honesty, transparency and a commitment to public service.