By Kadijatu Bangura, Daily Scope Reporter
The Parliamentary Committee on Information and Civic Education has urged the Sierra Leone News Agency to enhance reporting standards and inter-agency coordination, even as it grapples with delayed funding and logistical gaps.
During an oversight session on Monday, the Committee reviewed SLENA’s operations, financial standing, and reform agenda.
Managing Director Madam Lolo Yeama Thompson-Oguamah told lawmakers the agency is in a pivotal phase of institutional transformation under the Ministry of Information and Civic Education.
She reported that while Parliament approved SLENA’s 2026 budget, no procurement funds have been released. Despite this, she said the agency has maintained operations through staff commitment and support from partners.
The Managing Director noted key progress, including the deployment of 26 correspondents across MDAs such as Parliament, the Office of the President, and the Office of the Vice President. The move, she said, has significantly widened SLENA’s national coverage.
On digital reforms, she said SLENA now operates an AI-enabled website that automatically translates content into several languages based on user location. The agency has also expanded its footprint on Facebook, X, YouTube and LinkedIn.
Partnerships with news agencies in Morocco, Russia and OIC states have further strengthened editorial capacity, with training opportunities in photojournalism and online journalism.
Committee members acknowledged the progress but raised concerns over missing data. They called for detailed statistics on website traffic, social media reach and audience engagement to properly assess digital impact.
Lawmakers also questioned the distinction between SLENA’s mandate and that of other bodies under the Ministry, particularly the National Council for Civic Education and Development, citing potential overlaps.
On logistics, the Committee was told SLENA currently has no operational vehicle and depends on host MDAs for office space, transport and other support.
The Committee pledged to engage the Ministry and relevant authorities to advocate for the timely release of budget allocations and stronger institutional support for SLENA.
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