—SLAJ President
By John Kelly Marah
In an interview with a popular online media platform Truth Media, the President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), Alhaji Manika Kamara, outlined key activities planned for the Association’s forthcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM) and National Media Awards, stressing the importance of transparency, accountability, and responsible journalism in national development.
Kamara disclosed that a major highlight of the AGM will be the presentation of audited financial statements aimed at giving members a comprehensive understanding of the Association’s financial position.
According to him, SLAJ engaged KPMG to conduct an independent audit of the Association’s accounts dating back to 2014.
“We want our members to have a clear picture of the Association’s finances. The audited financial statements will show what resources came into the Association, how they were utilized, and where we stand financially,” he said.
The SLAJ President explained that the audit covers not only the Association’s finances but also funds managed through various affiliated projects and activities over the years.
In addition to the financial report, Kamara said he will present a State of the Association Address detailing the successes, challenges, achievements, and lessons learned during his administration’s first year in office.
“As President, it is important for me to account to members about the work we have done, the challenges we have faced, and the progress we have made since assuming office,” he stated.
Kamara further revealed that reports will also be presented by SLAJ’s affiliate organizations and regional bodies, including women in the media, parliamentary press gallery, and representatives from regional media associations.
He noted that his administration has introduced governance reforms aimed at strengthening accountability, including the establishment of an Internal Audit Unit and a Procurement Committee to oversee procurement processes and ensure transparency.
“We have put systems in place to improve accountability and ensure that members are fully informed about the decisions and activities of the Association,” he explained.
The AGM programme will also include panel discussions on media development and contemporary issues affecting journalism in Sierra Leone. Recreational activities, including the traditional football match between journalists from the Western Area and their counterparts from the provinces, will also form part of the event.
Kamara said the climax of the gathering will be the National Media Awards and Dinner, which has now been merged with the AGM to reduce operational costs and improve efficiency.
According to him, the decision was taken after realizing that organizing the two events separately placed unnecessary financial pressure on the Association.
This year’s National Media Awards are being jointly organized by SLAJ and the Independent Media Commission (IMC) following a resolution adopted by members during the Association’s 2024 AGM in Bo.
The event will be held under the theme: “Strengthening Sierra Leone’s Economy Through Responsible Journalism.”
Kamara said the theme reflects the media’s responsibility to contribute positively to national development through accurate, balanced, and ethical reporting.
“The global economy is facing challenges, and Sierra Leone is not exempt. Journalists must play their role by providing credible information, promoting accountability, and supporting national development through responsible journalism,” he said.
The keynote address will be delivered by Mohamed Alhaji Samoura, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of UBA Sierra Leone.
Kamara described Samoura as an ideal choice because of his background in both journalism and the financial sector.
“He started his professional career as a journalist before moving into banking. His experience in both fields will provide valuable insights into the relationship between journalism and economic development,” Kamara noted.
He expressed confidence that the AGM and National Media Awards will provide an important platform for professional reflection, accountability, and discussions on the future of journalism in Sierra Leone.
