By: Audrey Raymonda John
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in partnership with the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) and the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), recently concluded a two-day strategic media communication workshop designed to strengthen the media and communication skills of SLP officers. The training aimed to support the police force’s transition from a force to a service.
Held from September 29-30, the workshop brought together media officers from across Sierra Leone to help them develop and disseminate effective communication strategies.
Deputy Inspector General of Police, Mr. Sahr Yomba Senesi, urged participants to apply the lessons learned in their work, emphasizing the vital role media officers play in communicating the SLP’s transformation agenda.
On behalf of UNDP, Madam Bola Adebola reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to supporting the SLP’s transition, while SLAJ President, Mr. Alhaji Manika Kamara, praised the initiative as a valuable boost to the SLP’s communication capacity.
AIG Esther Mary Kaintor Dukuray, Director of Corporate Affairs, thanked participants for their engagement and reminded them that effective messaging is key to building public trust. She also emphasized the importance of maintaining consistency and unity in projecting the image of a people-centered police service.
This workshop is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen police-community engagement and ensure the success of the SLP’s transformation into a more service-oriented institution.