By Marilyn King
The President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), Alhaji Manika Kamara, has lauded Orange Sierra Leone for its sustained investment in journalism, media welfare and professional development, describing the partnership as critical to safeguarding ethical reporting and democratic discourse in the country.
Speaking at Orange Sierra Leone’s Annual Media Engagement, the SLAJ President said Orange remains one of the few corporate institutions that have consistently supported the media sector during a period of economic pressure and rapid digital disruption.
This support, he said reflects the principle that behind every byline there is a human being deserving of dignity and care. He noted that Orange’s advertising support and institutional engagement have helped many media houses remain operational at a time when traditional revenue models are under severe strain.
He highlighted Orange’s investment in human capital development, including scholarships for journalists pursuing Master’s and PhD programmes, as well as educational support for journalists’ children.
“This intervention goes beyond corporate social responsibility,” he said. “It represents long-term mission-building through knowledge, professionalism and opportunity.”
He expressed hope that the new leadership of Orange Sierra Leone would continue and expand these initiatives to further strengthen the profession.
The SLAJ President also praised Orange’s annual sponsorship of the SLAJ Media Awards, which he said has helped raise standards by celebrating excellence, ethics and courage in journalism nationwide.
In his keynote address, Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, underscored the enduring relevance of journalism, noting that radio remains the most trusted source of news in Sierra Leone despite the growth of social media.
He cautioned against sensationalism and urged journalists to tell the full national story, balancing accountability with positive development narratives.
“The truth is not only when tariffs go up,” the minister said. “The truth also includes the positive impact of institutions like Orange on education, connectivity and opportunity.”
He emphasized that strong partnerships between the private sector and the media are essential, particularly as the country moves toward future electoral cycles.
In his remarks, the Executive Secretary of the Independent Media Commission (IMC), Khalil Kallon, commended Orange Sierra Leone for maintaining open engagement with the media but called for greater and more inclusive support to community-based media houses, particularly those operating in rural and underserved areas.
“These stations remain the primary source of information for thousands of citizens, yet they face persistent operational challenges,” he said.
He urged corporate institutions to support community media through advertising placements, assistance with electricity and power solutions, and capacity-building initiatives, stressing that such investments should be seen as a strategic contribution to national development rather than charity.
Khalil Kallon also reminded journalists of their responsibility to ensure accuracy, balance and ethical reporting, noting that professionalism strengthens public trust and constructive engagement.
The Chief Executive Officer of Orange Sierra Leone, Madam Aïcha Touré, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to open communication, describing listening as her core leadership principle.
“Progress is not possible without open and constructive communication,” Madam Touré said. “The media plays a critical role in helping the public understand not only our successes, but also the challenges we face as an industry.”
She outlined Orange’s key priorities, including continued investment in network quality and digital infrastructure, promotion of digital and financial inclusion, strengthened cybersecurity and data protection, and deeper environmental and social impact.
She said Orange remains committed to being a trusted and preferred partner in Sierra Leone’s development journey.
Madam Kadijah Bangura of Liberty TV, welcomed Orange’s continued partnership, describing it as crucial in combating misinformation and supporting media survival in the digital age.
As the engagement concluded, stakeholders agreed that sustained collaboration between telecom operators, media institutions and regulators remains vital to promoting credible information, strengthening democracy and supporting national cohesion.
