By Kadijatu Bangura, D.S. Reporter
Freetown, October 23, 2025 – In a significant step for the film industry, stakeholders have unanimously endorsed the Draft National Film Policy 2025, agreeing to swiftly establish a new National Film Council as outlined in the policy. This consensus emerged during a major consultative meeting organized by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, which brought together the interim National Film Council, the Elders Council, various guilds, associations, and other interested parties.
Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor A. Bah, emphasized the urgent need for unity in the film sector, declaring, “The ship is setting sail — you either join, or you will be left behind.” He highlighted that all stakeholders present recognized the importance of moving forward collectively to implement the policy without delay.
The Draft National Film Policy establishes two pivotal governance structures: the National Council for Movie Makers – Sierra Leone (National Film Council), intended as the unified industry body, and a National Film and Video Censorship Directorate under the Independent Media Commission (IMC) to oversee regulation, classification, and compliance.
Minister Bah reiterated that the endorsed blueprint focuses specifically on the formation of the new National Film Council, which will operate with clear eligibility criteria, defined mandates, and transparent representation from guilds, associations, and practitioners. He urged stakeholders to “put aside old divisions and embrace a unified future.”
Deputy Minister Bockarie Bawoh reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring a fair and inclusive transition, stating, “This process must reflect the will of the industry, not the will of individuals.”
Representatives from various guilds and associations expressed their readiness to collaborate, welcoming the opportunity to reset the industry on the principles of shared rules, professionalism, and collective accountability.
In a vote of thanks on behalf of the Elders Council, Mr. Salami Carew praised the spirit of unity and urged all parties to maintain momentum through the upcoming stages of validation and implementation.
The meeting concluded with a unanimous resolution to expedite the final adoption of the Draft National Film Policy 2025 and initiate preparatory work for the establishment of the new National Film Council and the IMC’s film directorate.
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