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The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has urged government, development partners, and civil society to strengthen efforts in ensuring universal access to information, particularly on environmental issues.
Speaking at the commemoration of the International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI) at the Family Kingdom Resort in Aberdeen, SLAJ Secretary General Edward Marrah said this year’s theme, “Ensuring Access to Environmental Information in the Digital Age,” underscores the importance of transparency and timely access to data in tackling Sierra Leone’s environmental challenges.
Marrah cited flooding in Freetown, deforestation, land degradation, coastal erosion, and sand mining as threats to lives, food security, and communities. “Without access to such information, citizens cannot prepare, adapt, or hold authorities accountable for protecting the environment and safeguarding livelihoods,” he stressed.
He highlighted the crucial role of journalists in interpreting and disseminating environmental information under the Right to Access Information Act, noting that they can both expose harmful practices such as illegal logging and pollution, and amplify stories of resilience in climate adaptation.
Over the years, SLAJ has partnered with the Right to Access Information Commission (RAIC) to push for stronger enforcement powers and to train journalists in using the law. However, Marrah lamented that delays in accessing information from public institutions and RAIC’s limited resources continue to undermine the law’s effectiveness.
“As SLAJ, we reaffirm our commitment to working with RAIC and all stakeholders to promote a culture of openness and to ensure that the right of access to information remains a living, functional right for every citizen,” he declared.
He congratulated RAIC on the commemoration and called for renewed commitment to support both the Commission and the media in advancing transparency, accountability, and sustainable development.
Source: SLAJ
