During the 2025 Sierra Leone Innovates Digital Government Summit, held at the Freetown International Conference Centre, Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, stressed on the importance of responsible content creation and digital literacy for Sierra Leone’s TikTok creators.

In his address titled “Exploring TikTok Monetisation: Pathways for Sierra Leone’s Digital Creators,” Minister Bah asserts the significant role that platforms like TikTok play in shaping public discourse and economic opportunities.

“TikTok isn’t just a stage for entertainment—it’s a civic space. Creators now have the power to shape narratives, drive behaviors, and even influence national outcomes. But that power must come with responsibility,” he stated.

Minister Bah, who oversees civic education, outlined three key priorities for the government, which includes:

Strengthening Digital and Media Literacy: He stressed the need for enhanced digital literacy across Sierra Leone, ensuring that both creators and consumers can navigate online spaces safely and critically.

Combating Misinformation: The Minister called for the promotion of content standards that protect the public interest while respecting freedom of expression to combat misinformation.

Creating an Enabling Policy Environment: He advocated for policies that empower creators to monetise their content ethically, access training, and engage in civic transformation.

“Monetisation without media literacy is a risk. We must not only support creators to earn—but also equip them to discern, inform, and uplift,” Minister Bah added.

He further announced that the Ministry is exploring partnerships with digital platforms, including TikTok, to provide local content producers with tools, mentorship, and safeguards. “This government will not only regulate—we will enable. We see our creators as entrepreneurs, educators, and change agents,” he asserted.

The panel featured notable figures from the tech and creative sectors, including Salima M. Bah, Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation; Boniswa Qhama Sidwaba, Head of Content Operations for TikTok Sub-Saharan Africa; and Juliet Konya Sesay, TikTok President in Sierra Leone.