India Pledges Support for Sierra Leone Journalists

By Mohamed Kamara

The National Executive of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) on Thursday, 13th November 2025, paid a courtesy call on the Indian High Commissioner to Sierra Leone, His Excellency Baisnab Charan Pradhan, as part of the Association’s engagement with diplomatic partners.

Welcoming the delegation, Ambassador Pradhan commended the media in Sierra Leone for promoting responsible and ethical journalism. He noted that relations between the Embassy and the media have remained strong, with several Sierra Leonean journalists benefiting from training opportunities in India.

The High Commissioner highlighted India’s continued support to Sierra Leone’s economic development, pointing to the presence of Indian-owned businesses across the country. He said more investors are expected to establish manufacturing companies that will create jobs and boost the economy. He cited ongoing investments in construction materials and energy supply as examples of India’s growing contribution to the country’s development, adding that Sierra Leone’s peace and stability make it an attractive destination.

In his remarks, SLAJ President Alhaji Manika Kamara thanked the Ambassador for the longstanding cooperation and called for more support toward strengthening media capacity. He said the sector urgently needs training in digital reporting, investigative journalism, fact-checking, and new media tools. He emphasised that SLAJ is a development partner focused on ensuring journalists provide accurate and timely information—not a political mouthpiece for any side.

The SLAJ President also appealed for Indian investment in the media sector, particularly in printing materials, broadcast equipment, and digital technologies.

In response, Ambassador Pradhan expressed India’s willingness to support journalism training and media exchange programs and encouraged SLAJ to submit a proposal outlining key priority areas.

The meeting ended with both sides reaffirming their commitment to deepening cooperation. SLAJ pledged to continue promoting a professional and ethical media environment, while the Indian High Commissioner promised continued support for media development in Sierra Leone.