The Media Reform Coordinating Group (MRCG), in collaboration with its partners, has officially launched the National Fund for Public Interest Media (NaFPIM). This initiative aims to support the creation of high quality media content that empowers citizens, enabling them to make informed decisions and engage in inclusive discussions on issues that directly impact their lives.
The fund seeks to support the production of high quality content that empowers citizens to make informed decisions and stimulates an inclusive discussion of the issues affecting their lives, promote innovation and excellence in the media sector by giving grantees the space to road test new approaches and align their editorial outputs to audience needs, and foster media viability and sustainability by enabling media outlets to strengthen or streamline their internal systems and diversify their revenue streams. With this new fund, MRCG and its partners are committed to enhancing the quality and sustainability of media in the country, ensuring it continues to serve the public good and meet the demands of an informed citizenry.
MRCG’s National Coordinator articulated the vision behind the fund, which emerged from the National Action Plan for media viability. He reflected on the initial doubts surrounding the initiative, noting that many regarded its goals as overly ambitious. However, through perseverance and teamwork, that dream has turned into a reality. “We collaborated with BBC Media Action to create a framework for implementing the remaining recommendations of the National Media Action Plan,” he explained, likening this achievement to a pregnancy that has come to term. He expressed optimism that this “baby” will grow and fulfill the aspirations of Sierra Leone’s media landscape.
President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), who’s also the Chairman of the Multi Stakeholders Board of NaFPIM, Ahmed Sahid Nasralla emphasized the ongoing efforts to bolster independent journalism in the country. He highlighted the significance of the National Media Investment Conference of 2022, which laid the foundation for this fund. “This is not a mere coincidence, but the culmination of intentional and persistent endeavors,” he stated. He further noted that the fund would provide essential financial backing to media organizations, allowing them to pursue investigative journalism and comprehensive reporting for the public good. He expressed gratitude towards international partners for their critical role in realizing the fund. “This initiative represents a turning point, addressing the enduring financial challenges that have impeded media operations,” he remarked.
BBC Media Action’s Country Director for Sierra Leone and Ethiopia, Edward Kargbo shared similar thoughts, acknowledging the lengthy and challenging path to reach this milestone, and revealing that the Board had faced moments of dwindling ideas. He discussed the fund’s significant role in alleviating the financial burdens of public interest media in Sierra Leone. He emphasized that, while the fund’s launch is a major achievement, work must continue to implement other recommendations from the National Action Plan.
The Chairman of the Independent Media Commission (IMC) Joseph Egbenda Kapuwa conveyed his pride in witnessing the fund’s inception, characterizing it as a vital step in enhancing the media’s function in promoting good governance. He stressed the necessity of a financially stable media sector for national progress, cautioning, “We must nurture this baby” echoing Dr. Sowa’s metaphor. The IMC, as the nation’s media regulatory authority, plays a crucial role in ensuring that the fund assists media organizations that are independent, fair, and capable of serving the public interest.
The Director for Africa and the Middle East at the International Fund for Public Interest Media (IFPIM), Makmid Kamara, placed the initiative in a global context noting that IFPIM works in over 40 countries, providing financial assistance to media outlets in low and middle-income regions. This fund aims to bolster media organizations facing financial hardships, particularly in areas with limited resources. The director highlighted the fund’s role in enhancing the financial resilience of media entities and underlined its importance in preserving and transforming media institutions in Sierra Leone, ensuring they can continue their essential work in holding power accountable and promoting democracy.
The launch of NaFPIM was honored by the presence of United Nations Resident Coordinator, Seraphine Wakana, who delivered the keynote address; underscoring the significance of public interest media in promoting good governance and accountability. She stressed that the media is fundamental in keeping citizens informed, ensuring transparency, and fostering accountability. She pointed out the challenges journalists face globally, especially in conflict regions, and urged for stronger protection of journalist’s rights. She reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to supporting media projects in Sierra Leone, highlighting that the National Fund for Public Interest Media aligns with its mission of promoting human rights and democratic governance.
The establishment of NaFPIM marks a historic moment in the media landscape of Sierra Leone, providing essential financial support to ensure the sustainability and survival of public interest journalism. As this initiative takes root, it is evident that the collaboration between the government, media organizations, and international partners will be vital for its success. The launch of the fund marks the call for proposals from media outlets engaged in public interest journalism in Sierra Leone.
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