The Media Advocacy Network-SL concluded a one-day press freedom conference in Freetown on Wednesday, May 6, 2026. The event, held at the Africell American Corner on Bathurst Street in Freetown, brought together various stakeholders to discuss critical issues facing media practitioners in Sierra Leone. Discussions during the conference focused on strengthening journalistic standards and upholding democratic principles through a free and independent press. Participants examined strategies for enhancing media safety and promoting ethical reporting. The network stated its commitment to continuing advocacy efforts on behalf of journalists across the country following the successful conclusion of the conference.
Journalists' Vital Role and Press Freedom Threats
The conference was organized to commemorate World Press Freedom Day 2026. During the event, Amb. Mariama S. Tarawally, Deputy Coordinator of Media Advocacy Network-SL, noted the key role journalists play in upholding democracy, defending human rights, and ensuring accountability. Tarawally stated that "press freedom continues to face threats, with journalists often subjected to intimidation, harassment, and attacks while carrying out their professional duties." She also noted that "the rise of misinformation, disinformation, and rapidly evolving technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), continue to reshape the media landscape and create new challenges for journalists."
Esther Yealie Kamara, Co-Founder of Youth Initiative for Climate Action (YICA), presented on the significance of storytelling in driving social change and raising awareness regarding critical environmental issues. Amb. Mohamed Tejan Barrie, Executive Director of Media Advocacy Network-SL, called on authorities and stakeholders to take concrete actions to promote and protect press freedom in Sierra Leone. Barrie expressed concern, stating, "It is deeply concerning that journalists in Sierra Leone continue to face intimidation, harassment, and at times physical assault, particularly while covering political events and public demonstrations." He emphasized the role of the press, asserting, "Journalists are not adversaries of the state; they are essential actors in informing citizens and holding power to account." Barrie concluded by stressing that "A free press is not a privilege granted by those in power; it is a right that must be actively defended."
Speakers Address Challenges and Future
The conference proceedings took place at the Africell American Corner, located on Bathurst Street in Freetown. Amb. Mariama S. Tarawally, Deputy Coordinator of Media Advocacy Network-SL, emphasized that a free and independent press remains essential for promoting transparency and enabling citizens to make informed decisions. This transparency, she noted, is key for fostering an engaged citizenry capable of participating effectively in democratic processes. Tarawally also articulated challenges facing the media, stating that "the rise of misinformation, disinformation, and rapidly evolving technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), continue to reshape the media landscape and create new challenges for journalists." These evolving challenges necessitate continuous adaptation and strong support for media professionals.
Cecilia Alice Sesay, a journalist with the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC), addressed attendees on "The Importance of Press Freedom on the Internet." Her presentation showed how digital platforms have transformed news dissemination and the responsibilities that come with this expanded reach. Complementing this, John Koroma, Executive Director of Stop IT Newspaper, delivered a presentation titled "The Importance of Newspaper in the Social Media Age," discussing the enduring relevance of print media and its role in providing in-depth analysis amidst the rapid pace of digital news.
Amb. Mohamed Tejan Barrie, Executive Director of Media Advocacy Network-SL, acknowledged Sierra Leone's progress in expanding civic space and media plurality but cautioned that these gains remain fragile. He stressed that while the country has made strides, sustained effort is required to consolidate and protect these achievements against potential setbacks. Barrie reiterated the fundamental role of journalists, asserting, "Journalists are not adversaries of the state; they are essential actors in informing citizens and holding power to account." He concluded by stressing, "A free press is not a privilege granted by those in power; it is a right that must be actively defended."
Call for Action and Defense of Rights
The conference operated under the theme, "Shaping a Future at Peace: Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Development, and Security." Amb. Mohamed Tejan Barrie, Executive Director of Media Advocacy Network-SL, emphasized the critical role of a free, independent, and professional media in safeguarding democracy, accountability, and the public interest. He elaborated that such a media landscape is indispensable for a healthy society, ensuring that power is checked and citizens are well-informed. Barrie stated, "Journalists are not adversaries of the state; they are essential actors in informing citizens and holding power to account." He further asserted, "A free press is not a privilege granted by those in power; it is a right that must be actively defended." The event gathered a diverse group of participants, including journalists, civil society actors, media practitioners, and other stakeholders, all committed to advancing press freedom in Sierra Leone. The discussions noted the collective responsibility of all societal segments in upholding these fundamental rights.
