The study examines journalists’ welfare in Sierra Leone. The key issues assessed include salary trends, compliance with the National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT) and the National Revenue Authority (NRA) requirements, the Independent Media Commission (IMC) Act of 2020 (Act No. 5 of 2020), safety mechanisms, and other conditions of service for journalists in their media houses (radio, television stations, newspapers, and online media) in Sierra Leone.
The study employed a mixed-methods approach and surveyed reporters, editors, and managers at radio and television stations, newspapers, and online media across Sierra Leone, using an online questionnaire to collect data on their welfare. One hundred and twelve (112) respondents were targeted, representing 7.9% of journalists from across the country, with all regions (Southern, Eastern, Northern, North-West, Eastern, and Western Regions) represented. An interview guide was prepared and used to conduct interviews with media owners and heads of media organisations. A semi-structured approach was used to elicit additional information from the interviewees’ responses. Ethical considerations were adhered to throughout the research process.
The findings generally show that the majority of journalists in Sierra Leone face welfare challenges, with 25.9% having never received a monthly salary. Even where salaries are paid, 42% of journalists earn below the national minimum wage, and 47.3% are not registered with the National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT).
Many media institutions were either underpaying their employees or failing to pay salaries and other social security benefits. Many journalists are not knowledgeable about the provisions of the IMC Act 2020, the National Social Security and Insurance Trust Act 2002 (Act No. 5 of 2001), and the Minimum Wage Act 1997 (Act No. 1 of 1997) and its amendments, which emphasise workers’ welfare.
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