Africell Sierra Leone has once again demonstrated its commitment to strengthening relations with the country’s media community by sponsoring the 2026 SLAJ Media Iftar, an annual Ramadan gathering that brings journalists together in a spirit of fellowship and reflection.
The event, organized by the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), took place at the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC) compound in Freetown, attracting journalists, editors, bloggers, and other media practitioners from across the capital.
The Media Iftar has over the years become an important platform for media professionals to meet outside the pressures of newsroom deadlines. During the holy month of Ramadan, the gathering allows members of the media fraternity to break their fast together, share a meal, exchange ideas, and offer prayers while strengthening bonds within the profession.
Speaking about the company’s support, Africell Sierra Leone Chief Executive Officer, Shadi Gerjawi, emphasized that the sponsorship reflects the telecommunications company’s continued respect for the role journalists play in national development. According to him, Africell values the media as a critical partner in informing the public, promoting transparency, and shaping constructive public dialogue.
Gerjawi noted that Africell has always maintained a strong relationship with journalists and media institutions in Sierra Leone, supporting initiatives that promote professionalism, unity, and collaboration within the sector. He added that the company recognizes the challenges faced by journalists and believes that supporting platforms like the SLAJ Media Iftar helps foster stronger ties and mutual understanding.
The Africell CEO further highlighted that the company’s engagement with the media goes beyond business interests. He explained that Africell views the media as a pillar of democracy and a key stakeholder in national progress, stressing that partnerships between corporate institutions and journalists can contribute significantly to informed public discourse.
Members of the media who attended the event expressed appreciation for Africell’s continued support, describing the Media Iftar as an important moment of reflection and solidarity within the journalism community. Many noted that the gathering not only celebrates the values of Ramadan but also strengthens professional relationships among media practitioners.
For SLAJ, the annual Media Iftar remains a symbolic event that promotes unity and cooperation among journalists, regardless of their media affiliations. It also provides an avenue for interaction between journalists and corporate partners who continue to support the growth and sustainability of the media sector.
Africell Sierra Leone’s sponsorship of the 2026 SLAJ Media Iftar further underscores the company’s broader commitment to community engagement and partnership with key national stakeholders. By supporting initiatives that bring journalists together, the company continues to play a role in encouraging dialogue, professionalism, and unity within the media landscape of Sierra Leone.