AYV News, July 15, 2025
A new chapter in the life of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) officially began, as members, partners and supporters of the media gathered at the Bintumani Hotel Hall in Freetown for the organisation’s Handing Over and Inauguration Ceremony.
Held under the theme: “Celebrating Service, Honouring Partnership, Ushering in a New Era,” the occasion marked the peaceful transition of leadership from the outgoing executive to a newly elected team, with Alhaji Manika Kamara sworn in as the new President of SLAJ.
In his first official address as President, Alhaji Manika Kamara described the moment as the start of a new era defined by continuity, collective effort and dedication to service. Expressing gratitude for the confidence placed in him by SLAJ members, he said he was honoured and humbled to lead the Association and committed himself to building on the progress made over the years.
He paid glowing tribute to his predecessor, Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, popularly known as “De Monk,” for his exceptional leadership and unwavering defence of press freedom. Alhaji Manika Kamara praised Ahmed Sahid Nasralla for guiding SLAJ with vision and integrity during his six-year term and for leaving behind a strong and credible institution. He also described Ahmed Sahid Nasralla as a friend, mentor and selfless leader whose legacy would remain a guiding light for the future of SLAJ.
Speaking to the responsibilities ahead, Alhaji Manika Kamara introduced his ACTION Manifesto, a leadership framework focused on Advocacy, Commitment, Transparency, Innovation, Organisation and Networking. He said that his priorities will include improving the safety and welfare of journalists, especially those working in remote and challenging areas and strengthening professional development through training and mentorship.
He also highlighted the importance of unity and inclusion within the Association, promising to ensure that SLAJ is a home for all voices, including women, young journalists, persons with disabilities, regional branches and veteran media professionals.
Alhaji Manika Kamara pledged to deepen partnerships with both national and international organisations to defend press freedom and build a more sustainable institution. He committed to institutional reforms, good governance and fundraising strategies that would strengthen the Secretariat and enhance SLAJ’s long-term impact.
Having served previously as Assistant Secretary General, Acting Secretary General and Secretary General of the Association, Alhaji Manika Kamara said he was not new to the challenges but expressed hope and confidence that with the foundation laid by past leaders and the support of all members, progress would continue.
He called on every SLAJ member, past president, regional executive, partner and industry stakeholder to support the new leadership and work together to move the Association forward. He ended his speech with a powerful message of unity and shared purpose, declaring that the future of SLAJ rests not in the hands of one individual but in the collective efforts of all who believe in press freedom and responsible journalism.
“Let this new era be one of shared ownership, shared responsibility and shared success,” Alhaji Manika Kamara said, closing his address with a call to action and renewed commitment to the values of the journalism profession.
