By Ibrahim S. Bangura
Freetown, Sierra Leone — September 16, 2025:The Veteran Artists Association-Sierra Leone (VAA-SL) has taken a major step toward strengthening the country’s creative industry by signing a historic Volunteer Agreement with its newly constituted Secretariat. The signing ceremony, held at the Ballanta Academy of Music and Performing Arts (BAMPA) in Freetown, marks a pivotal moment in the association’s mission to promote arts and culture nationwide.
The agreement formalizes the engagement of eight professionals who will serve on a pro-bono basis, bringing a wealth of expertise to support VAA-SL’s operations and advocacy efforts. The Secretariat includes:
| Name | Role | Responsibility |
| Sajoh Jalloh | Executive Director | Strategic leadership, vision, and policy direction |
| Melvin Davies | Administrative Officer | Operational and administrative functions |
| Charlie Haffner | Lead Organizing Officer | Coordination of programs, projects, and events |
| Alie Mohamed Bangura | Assistant Organizing Officer | Support in planning and execution of activities |
| Ibrahim Sheku Bangura | Public Relations Officer | Communications, publicity, and community outreach |
| Mamadi Grace Sawaneh | Finance Officer | Financial operations and budget management |
| Fatmata Kanu | Financial Assistant | Financial accountability and reporting |
| Alvin Williams | Secretariat Contributor | General support to Secretariat effectiveness |
Speaking at the event, Executive Director Sajoh Jalloh emphasized the significance of the agreement. “This formalization strengthens our foundation to advocate for the arts and support Sierra Leone’s veteran artists. Our work is about bridging gaps, inspiring the next generation, and preserving our cultural heritage,” he said.
VAA-SL, incorporated on August 16, 2023, under the Companies Act No. 5 of 2009, operates as a non-profit entity headquartered at 27 Liverpool Street, Freetown. The association plans to expand its presence through regional branches, furthering its reach across the country.
According to its Memorandum of Association, VAA-SL is committed to raising awareness about the arts, preserving Sierra Leone’s cultural legacy, and promoting professionalism in the creative industry. Its objectives include:
- Lobbying for arts-friendly policies at central and local government levels
- Advocating for the ratification of international cultural treaties
- Mentoring emerging artists
- Organizing awards and public events to celebrate artistic excellence
- Exploring sustainable funding through donations, grants, and income-generating activities
The association operates in both English and Krio and is led by distinguished Sierra Leonean artists aged 50 and above, including notable figures such as Dr. Julius Spencer and Professor Mallam O, the latter serving as Board Chairman.
Jalloh reiterated VAA-SL’s commitment to fostering intergenerational dialogue and unity across cultural divides. “This agreement marks a new chapter for VAA-SL as we continue to champion the growth of Sierra Leone’s creative sector,” he concluded.
The signing ceremony signals renewed momentum within VAA-SL and highlights the power of collaboration in advancing arts and culture. For Sierra Leone, it represents another stride toward building a vibrant, inclusive creative industry that honors its heritage and inspires future generations.