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The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) President, Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, has officially launched the European Union (EU)-funded Media Empowerment for Democracy, Inclusion, and Accountability (MEDIA) Project.
The launch marks a significant step towards bolstering press freedom, media professionalism, and public interest journalism in Sierra Leone.
President Nasralla expressed his gratitude to the EU for funding the initiative and to the consortium partners – BBC Media Action, the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), and the World Association of News Publishers – for their leadership in implementing the project.
“This project comes at a critical time when Sierra Leone’s media landscape is evolving to meet the demands of an informed citizenry, a vibrant democracy, and a sustainable media sector,” President Nasralla stated during his speech.
He emphasized that the MEDIA Project represents a “strategic investment” that aligns with SLAJ’s ongoing efforts to ensure a free, independent, and responsible media sector, fostering transparency, accountability, and inclusive democratic participation.
A key focus of the project is the dedicated support for young and female journalists. President Nasralla highlighted the importance of sustainability, professionalism, and diversity in media leadership.
“By providing training, mentorship, and leadership opportunities for women journalists, this initiative will bridge gaps, empower female media practitioners, and promote gender inclusion in our sector,” he said.
President Nasralla called for unity and collaboration to build a stronger, freer, and more independent media landscape for Sierra Leone.
“As we embark on this journey together, SLAJ, IRN, and MRCG remain fully committed to the success of this project,” he affirmed. “We will work collaboratively with all partners to ensure that the MEDIA Project delivers its intended impact – strengthening independent journalism, enhancing civic participation, and fostering a sustainable media ecosystem in Sierra Leone.”
He concluded by urging international partners, local stakeholders, and journalists across Sierra Leone to seize the opportunity to drive meaningful change and embrace professionalism, ethics, and innovation.
