By: Yusuf Ibrahim Kamara
In a historic gathering that marked the first Annual General Meeting of the Sierra Leone Reporters Union (SLRU) in more than two decades, the President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), Alhaji Manika Kamara, delivered a compelling statement reinforcing the organisation’s commitment to strengthening the welfare and professionalism of journalists nationwide.
Speaking under the theme “The New Constitution: A Blueprint for the Welfare of Reporters,” President Kamara praised SLRU for its milestone achievement, noting that the revival of the union signalled a renewed era of unity and institutional growth within the media fraternity. He commended the SLRU leadership for its resilience, particularly acknowledging the contributions of Mohamed Jaward Nyallay and Moses Kargbo in steering the union through its restructuring phase.
President Kamara emphasised that the welfare and safety of reporters remain central to SLAJ’s ACTION Manifesto. He disclosed that robust engagements with the security sector, including the Attorney General, Minister of Justice, and the Sierra Leone Police, have yielded firm commitments ensuring that no journalist is taken to the CID for issues arising purely from journalistic work.
He further highlighted the pivotal role reporters play as frontline practitioners informing the public, amplifying community voices, exposing wrongdoing, and protecting democratic values yet often operating under challenging conditions. He stressed that the ongoing development of a modern and inclusive SLRU constitution represents a critical step toward securing dignity, professional protection, and fair treatment for reporters nationwide.
President Kamara also revealed SLAJ’s ongoing efforts with the Ministry of Labour, alongside planned engagements with the Guild of Newspaper Editors and Station Managers/Owners, aimed at improving remuneration packages and ensuring NASSIT contributions for media workers.
As SLRU members deliberate on constitutional reforms, President Kamara encouraged them to envision a future where every reporter is respected, empowered, and adequately protected to deliver quality journalism without fear.
He reaffirmed SLAJ’s unwavering partnership and support: “SLAJ remains your steadfast partner on this journey,” he concluded, wishing the union a productive and forward-looking AGM.