By: Mohamed Abu Conteh
President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists, Alhaji Manika Kamara, has emphasized that the voices of sports journalists are critical in shaping the future of sports in Sierra Leone.
Kamara made the statement at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Sports Writers Association of Sierra Leone on Saturday, April 26, at the SLOIC Complex.
He commended SWASAL one of SLAJ’s oldest affiliate bodies for its longstanding contribution to the growth, professionalism, and credibility of sports journalism in the country. He also praised the association for convening the AGM under the timely theme: “Strengthening Sports Journalism in the Digital Era: Innovation, Integrity and Impact.”
According to Kamara, the theme reflects the realities confronting journalists in an increasingly fast-paced digital media environment.
“Sports journalism in Sierra Leone stands at a critical crossroads,” he said. “While there are unprecedented opportunities through digital platforms, multimedia storytelling, and global audiences, there are also serious challenges, including misinformation, declining revenues, limited training opportunities, and the need to uphold ethical standards.”
He noted that the future of the profession will depend on how effectively journalists respond to these opportunities and challenges.
Kamara outlined three key priorities innovation, integrity, and impact as essential pillars for the growth of sports journalism.
On innovation, he urged journalists to go beyond traditional match reporting and embrace digital storytelling, including video, audio, data visualization, and social media engagement. He stressed that SWASAL has a vital role in equipping its members with the necessary skills to adapt.
Addressing integrity, Kamara warned against the growing temptation to sacrifice accuracy for speed in the era of instant publishing. He emphasized that credibility remains the cornerstone of journalism and must be protected through professionalism, fairness, and ethical conduct.
“Credibility is our currency,” he stated, adding that journalists must remain committed to truth and accountability in shaping public perception and promoting national unity.
On impact, the SLAJ President said sports journalism should go beyond reporting scores to influencing policy, promoting accountability in sports administration, and highlighting grassroots talent for national development.
“Your voices matter in shaping the future of sports in Sierra Leone,” he stressed.
He reaffirmed SLAJ’s commitment to supporting SWASAL through capacity building, ethical training, and institutional strengthening. He disclosed plans to enhance the welfare and safety of sports journalists, particularly those covering high-pressure assignments, while also fostering partnerships to expand opportunities for growth and exposure.
“We believe that a stronger SWASAL means a stronger media sector, and ultimately, a stronger Sierra Leone,” Kamara said.
He encouraged members to use the AGM to reflect on the progress made and to chart a clear path for the future, urging them to embrace innovation without compromising core journalistic values.
Kamara concluded by reaffirming SLAJ’s solidarity with SWASAL, expressing confidence that together they can build a vibrant, innovative, and ethical sports media landscape in Sierra Leone.