By: Mohamed Sahr
In a bid to strengthen pluralistic and professional journalism across Sierra Leone, the Media Reform Coordinating Group (MRCG-SL), in partnership with BBC Media Action and with support from the Government of Sierra Leone, UKAid, Africa and the Middle East, and the International Fund for Public Interest Media, announced the 14 grantee media outlets of the National Fund for Public Interest Media (NaFPIM). The announcement was made on Thursday, 28th August 2025, at the New Brookfields Hotel in Freetown.
Dr. Francis Sowa Esq, National Coordinator of MRCG-SL, described the event as a milestone achievement, transitioning from vision to reality. He noted that after a rigorous selection process in collaboration with key partners, 14 media outlets across the country have been awarded grants based on successful proposals submitted earlier this year.
Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, Chairman of the Multi-Stakeholder Board of NaFPIM, highlighted the importance of this initiative in ensuring the independence and sustainability of media institutions. “These grants serve as an independent source of revenue for the media, supporting journalism that prioritizes the public interest,” he said.
He added that this first round of grants aims to foster accountability, professionalism, and people-centered journalism. “It marks the beginning of a journey to ensure that Sierra Leoneans everywhere have access to credible, reliable, and independent journalism, free from undue influence,” Nasralla emphasized.
He further noted that the initiative would serve as a foundation for sustainable and fearless journalism in Sierra Leone.
Diana Njeru, Senior Project Manager at BBC Media Action, reiterated her organization’s commitment to media reform and press freedom. She noted that the collaboration with key partners helped make the announcement of the NaFPIM grantees a success.
Njeru also highlighted the role of BBC Media Action in promoting and disseminating media content across Sierra Leone. She congratulated the grant recipients and urged them to use the funds responsibly and transparently.
Joseph Egbenda Kapuwa Esq., Chairman of the Independent Media Commission (IMC), stated that the initiative would significantly bolster media professionalism and viability. He emphasized that the grants reflect a shared responsibility to support public interest media.
“Despite the crucial roles the media play in informing, educating, and entertaining the public, the sector faces numerous challenges,” Kapuwa said. “These grants enhance media viability, promote professionalism, and support content that serves the public interest.”
He concluded by affirming that the IMC remains committed to building a media landscape that is free, pluralistic, responsible, and sustainable. “When the media thrives, democracy grows stronger,” he said.
The list of Grant Recipients and Amounts are Liberty Online Television –$7,000, AYV – $6,000, Hope FM – $4,000, Radio Bankasoka – $4,000, Hands of Hope – $3,500, Radio Gbafth – $3,500, Shalom Radio – $3,000, Kakua Express – $3,000, Nature Newspaper – $3,500, Radio Wanjah – $4,000, Voice of Kono – $4,000, Calabash Newspaper – $2,500, Classic Radio – $3,500, Heart FM – $2,500.
