By George M.O. Williams
Freetown, July 8, 2025 — The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), in collaboration with the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA), hosted a specialized training session aimed at strengthening conflict-sensitive reporting and enhancing governance accountability among media practitioners.
Held at the Civil Service Training College in Tower Hill, Freetown, the workshop convened editors, station managers, and senior journalists to deepen their understanding of ethical journalism and the importance of fostering inclusive democratic discourse.
Core Focus Areas The training centered on three strategic themes:
– Tripartite Committee Recommendations: Enhancing transparency and accountability in governance
– Conflict-Sensitive Reporting: Promoting accuracy, neutrality, and inclusivity
– Common Ground Journalism: Encouraging constructive, non-adversarial media engagement
Speaking on behalf of the Tripartite Committee Secretariat, Ngolo Katta emphasized the collaborative effort among Parliament, ECSL, and civil society actors to integrate the Committee’s recommendations into legislative frameworks. He highlighted that sustained dialogue, inclusive planning, and institutional review are central to building public trust and fortifying electoral integrity.
Media ethics trainer James Tamba Lebbie guided participants through the pillars of conflict-sensitive journalism, underlining:
– The need to understand root causes of conflict
– Using precise, unbiased language
– Amplifying diverse voices, especially marginalized groups
– Ensuring truth, verification, and minimizing harm
Lebbie reminded journalists of their duty to report with independence and fairness, particularly when covering governance issues, cautioning against being used as tools for political manipulation.
Tommy Macarthy, Head of Programs at Talking Drum Studio, introduced the concept of common ground journalism, contrasting it with adversarial reporting. He advocated for approaches built on empathy, intention, and fairness to cultivate public dialogue rooted in mutual respect.
International IDEA reaffirmed its mission to support democratic institutions and highlighted the role of a responsible press in upholding governance, justice, and public service standards in Sierra Leone.
This initiative marks a significant step in capacitating the country’s media to play a proactive role in conflict prevention and democratic consolidation, with journalists urged to hold power accountable while fostering peace and civic participation.