By Amin Kef (Ranger)
The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) convened its Annual General Meeting on September 26-28, 2024 at the Njala venue on Torwama Road, Bo, gathering over 700 journalists from across the nation. The meeting, themed “Charting the Way Forward: New Constitution for an Inclusive and Stronger SLAJ,” served as a pivotal moment for reflecting on the future of journalism in Sierra Leone.
Mrs. Tuma Adama Gento-Kamara, President of the Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA), addressed attendees with a powerful message emphasizing the importance of unity and resilience in the face of contemporary challenges. She commended SLAJ’s leadership for organizing such a significant event and called for collective action to address the pressing issues facing the media landscape today.
“In times of division and misinformation, we must ask ourselves not what is convenient, but what is just, necessary, and right for the preservation of truth and democracy,” Gento-Kamara stated, highlighting the urgency of creating a new constitution for SLAJ.
The President outlined several constitutional challenges that the association must confront, including the need for inclusivity, the defense of press freedom, the evolution of membership criteria in the digital age, and the establishment of ethical accountability among journalists. Gento-Kamara stressed that inclusivity is critical for the growth and integrity of SLAJ, ensuring that all voices—whether from urban or rural journalists, and traditional or digital media—are heard.
She further emphasized the role of a new constitution as a foundational element that will not only address current challenges but also prepare SLAJ for future complexities. “A strong constitution will protect press freedom, which is the sacred element of this association. It is essential for informing the public, holding leaders accountable, and safeguarding justice,” she added.
As the media industry undergoes rapid transformation due to social media and digital platforms, Gento-Kamara urged attendees to consider how SLAJ can lead the way in promoting ethical journalism. She reaffirmed the legal profession’s support for journalists, highlighting the critical balance between freedom of expression and responsible journalism.
In closing, she encouraged SLAJ members to envision a stronger, more unified association that not only serves its members but also fortifies the fabric of Sierra Leonean society. “The decisions you make today will shape the future of journalism and democracy in this nation,” she concluded.
The meeting underscored the vital role of the press in Sierra Leone and reaffirmed the commitment of journalists to uphold the values of truth and accountability in their work.
