The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has announced the receipt of annual government subventions for the years 2023 and 2024. The total amount allocated to SLAJ for each year is SLE 750,000, summing up to SLE 1.5 million for the two years combined.

The provision of this subvention stems from a proclamation by His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio in 2018. This initiative was introduced to support the operations of SLAJ, which serves as the independent umbrella body for the media in Sierra Leone. The annual subvention underscores the President’s commitment to promoting press freedom within the country.

The subvention history reflects a steady increase in the amounts allocated over the years. Initially, the subvention for 2018 was set at SLE 150,000. Recognizing the critical role of the media, subsequent increments were made:

• In 2020, the subvention increased to SLE 250,000.
• In 2021, it further rose to SLE 500,000.
• By 2022, the subvention was established at SLE 750,000.

Alhaji Manika Kamara, the National Secretary-General of SLAJ, signed the press release acknowledging the receipt of these funds. According to the statement, the role of SLAJ is to administer the annual subvention efficiently, ensuring it supports the Association’s national and regional offices, established committees, affiliate bodies, and sub-bodies. Importantly, the elected officials overseeing these funds at various levels are volunteers who do not receive salaries from the subvention.

The annual subvention request is processed through the Ministry of Information and Civic Education and undergoes auditing by the Audit Service Sierra Leone to ensure compliance with the submitted budget.

The consistent increase in subvention amounts highlights the government’s ongoing commitment to bolstering media operations and press freedom in Sierra Leone. The funding plays a vital role in sustaining the activities and initiatives of SLAJ, thereby strengthening the media landscape in the country.