By Salamatu Conteh
The Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, has convened a strategic leadership meeting with the six agencies under the Ministry to strengthen coordination, review institutional progress, and address key challenges affecting the information sector.
The meeting brought together senior leadership from the Sierra Leone News Agency (SLENA), Right to Access Information Commission (RAIC), Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC), Government Printing Department (GPD), National Commission for Civic Education and Development (NACCED), and Independent Media Commission (IMC).
Chaired by Permanent Secretary Andrew Kamara, the engagement provided an opportunity for each agency to present updates on its programmes, achievements, challenges, and institutional priorities.
In his opening remarks, Permanent Secretary Kamara described the engagement as a strategic “one family” meeting, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and collective responsibility between the Ministry and its agencies. He noted that the Ministry’s structure has expanded and strengthened, creating greater opportunities for the agencies to support one another and work collectively towards achieving the Ministry’s mandate.
He proposed that the leadership meeting be held every two weeks to enhance regular coordination, accountability, information sharing, and follow-up on issues requiring collective action.
The six agencies subsequently presented updates on their respective programmes, activities, achievements, challenges, and priorities.
Independent Media Commission (IMC)
Chairman Joseph Kapowa of the Independent Media Commission reported on the ongoing review of the Commission’s Act and regulations, media monitoring activities, complaints involving media houses, and the need to strengthen the regulation of the rapidly evolving new media environment.
Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC)
Director-General Josephine Kamara of the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation provided updates on infrastructure rehabilitation, coverage of major national events, revenue-generation initiatives, partnerships, website development, and plans to restore Channel 27 as an entertainment platform.
Government Printing Department (GPD)
Mr. Suma of the Government Printing Department briefed the meeting on the Department’s new business venture, operational and marketing activities, and ongoing efforts to establish partnerships and Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with institutions for the provision of printing services.
Right to Access Information Commission (RAIC)
Chairman Dr. Shaw of the Right to Access Information Commission highlighted the Commission’s institutional achievements despite resource constraints. He also emphasized the need for additional legal capacity to effectively handle complaints and provided updates on preparations for the upcoming dual international information conferences scheduled for September.
National Commission for Civic Education and Development (NACCED)
Mr. Kobie of the National Commission for Civic Education and Development reported on the launch of the Citizens Budget, citizen engagement activities, Open Government Week, and ongoing discussions around strengthening the NACCED Act.
Sierra Leone News Agency (SLENA)
Meanwhile, Luciana Bassie of the Sierra Leone News Agency highlighted SLENA’s continued national information mandate, including the deployment of correspondents across key public institutions, including Parliament. She also highlighted the Agency’s international engagements, partnerships, and training opportunities aimed at strengthening the capacity of its staff.
In his closing remarks, Minister Bah thanked the heads and representatives of all six agencies for honouring the invitation and actively participating in the strategic engagement.
He commended the leadership and staff of the agencies for their continued efforts to strengthen their respective institutions and contribute to the Ministry’s broader mandate.
Minister Bah emphasized the importance of collaboration, coordination, innovation, and collective action, noting that the combined strength of the Ministry and its agencies is essential to advancing Sierra Leone’s information and civic education agenda.
