John Kelly Marah
Freetown, Sierra Leone – At the official launch of Unity Broadcasting Online Television on Friday at its Headquarters, 48 Siaka Stevens Street, key stakeholders from the media, civil society, and political parties commended the initiative as a milestone for inclusivity, truth, and professionalism in the media landscape.
Chairperson Madam Eastina Taylor maintained that it’s a “A Bridge That Connects People Through Stories”
In her inspiring opening remarks, Madam Wistina Taylor welcomed guests, partners, and supporters, describing the event as a “historic occasion.”
She stressed that Unity Broadcasting’s vision is to serve as a bridge connecting people across Europe, Africa, and the world through stories that matter. According to her, the platform is not only a digital innovation but also a strong commitment to balance, unity, inclusivity, and truth.
Taylor urged journalists, creatives, entrepreneurs, civil society, and citizens to use Unity Broadcasting as a home for authentic storytelling. She concluded by congratulating the team and expressing hope that the platform would shine as a beacon of hope and inspiration.
Delivering her keynote statement, CEO Elizabeth Gembeh, reaffirmed Unity Broadcasting’s mission to remain an inclusive and independent platform.
“We are a platform for all,” she declared. “In this critical time of nation-building, we must rise above our differences and work together for the progress of Sierra Leone.”
Gembeh assured the public that Unity Broadcasting would remain professional and fair, offering a level playing field for all voices. She emphasized the platform’s role in promoting dialogue, peace, and mutual respect, while rejecting division and bias.
SLAJ Representative Alhaji Manika Kamara said: “Digital Media Is Serious Business.”
Speaking on behalf of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), Alhaji Manika Kamara reflected on the evolution of the country’s media landscape.
He recounted the strides made since 2020, when bloggers and online practitioners received institutional support, leading to more than 90% now formally recognized.
Kamara also highlighted the revised IMC Act awaiting parliamentary approval, which aims to regulate online media platforms under the same standards as traditional journalism. He congratulated Unity Broadcasting for becoming one of only two officially registered online television stations in Sierra Leone, encouraging the team to remain committed to professionalism and credibility.
APC Women’s Congress Representative Madam Sarran Kabba remarked that it’s a “A Laudable Initiative for Independent Voices.”
Representing the All People’s Congress (APC) Women’s Congress, Deputy Treasurer Madam Sarran Kabba expressed pride in the initiative.
She described Unity Broadcasting as a laudable project that would strengthen independent voices despite the challenges of the current media environment. Kabba brought greetings from the APC Women’s Congress National President, and apologized for arriving late due to other pressing commitments.
Also delivering goodwill remarks, Abdul Rahman Kaikai of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) praised Unity Broadcasting for creating a platform that transcends political divides.
He underscored that the station’s independence and inclusivity could play a vital role in fostering national unity. He called on Sierra Leoneans to use the medium responsibly to promote peace, dialogue, and nation-building.
