By Joseph Momoh, Reporter, Daily Scope
Freetown President Julius Maada Bio has announced an increase in the government’s annual subvention to the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) to Le2.7 billion, up from Le2.5 billion, effective next year.
The announcement was made at the 7th Annual Presidential Media Cocktail, an event celebrating the media’s critical role in democracy and nation-building. President Bio emphasized his administration’s commitment to press freedom and the importance of collaboration between the media and government.
“This increase is significant and will help alleviate some of the longstanding challenges faced by the media,” Bio stated, acknowledging the vital role of journalism in a functioning democracy. He noted that government support for the media has grown substantially over recent years, with the subvention only at Le200 million in 2020, reflecting a strong dedication to strengthening the media sector.
The rise in funding is also paralleled by Sierra Leone’s notable advancement in the global press freedom index, moving up 25 places since 2017. In his address, President Bio urged journalists to center their work around humanity and to infuse creativity into their reporting. “Remain focused on promoting the public good while contributing to national progress,” he said.
While the increase in funding has been welcomed by some analysts as a positive move toward enhancing media independence, concerns remain about the safety of journalists and the media’s independence. Critics argue that state funding may influence journalistic objectivity. “This shows that a financially constrained press cannot be free,” remarked one journalist.
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