By Fatima Kpaka
Freetown, Sierra Leone — March 8, 2026 The President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), Alhaji Manika Kamara, has urged renewed commitment to advancing equality, justice, and opportunity for women and girls, particularly within the media sector, as Sierra Leone joined the world in commemorating International Women’s Day.
Speaking on the theme “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls,” Kamara described women as the backbone of Sierra Leone’s communities, noting their vital roles in family life, economic activities, education, healthcare, and peacebuilding. Despite these contributions, he said, many women continue to face structural inequalities that limit their full participation in leadership and decision-making.
Kamara highlighted challenges faced by women journalists, including harassment, discrimination, and limited opportunities for leadership. He praised their resilience and professionalism, while stressing the need for concrete support.
Under SLAJ’s leadership, several initiatives have been rolled out to empower women in the media. These include:
- The launch of Sierra Leone’s first-ever Gender Equality Policy for the media, supported by the Embassy of Ireland and the SLAJ Gender Advisory Panel.
- Training of 75 women journalists in Public Financial Management reporting, supported by the European Union through BBC Media Action.
- Ongoing digital media literacy training for more than 60 women journalists at Limkokwing University.
Kamara also emphasized SLAJ’s efforts to encourage the election and appointment of women into leadership positions within the Association, working closely with Women in the Media Sierra Leone (WIMSAL).
“The strength of our media sector depends on the full participation and leadership of women,” Kamara said, adding that journalists have a broader responsibility to challenge harmful stereotypes and amplify the voices of women, especially those in rural and marginalized communities.
He paid tribute to women journalists across Sierra Leone for their courage and integrity, noting that their work strengthens democracy and enriches the national media landscape.