By MRCG
The Media Reform Coordinating Group (MRCG), with support from the International Fund for Public Interest Media (IFPIM) and the BBC Media Action through the National Fund for Public Interest Media (NaFPIM) has today officially announced the award of grants to support public interest media initiatives across Sierra Leone. The event, held at Brookfields Hotel, brought together media practitioners, government officials, and development partners to celebrate this milestone for independent journalism.
The Programs Manager for NaFPIM, Dr Francis Sowa highlighted the journey of the National Fund, which was conceived about three years ago to strengthen public interest journalism across the country. He acknowledged the crucial role of the Technical Committee in reviewing applications and ensuring the selection of initiatives with high impact and sustainability. “Today marks the fruition of years of planning, collaboration, and commitment,” he said. Dr. Sowa added that this was the 6th recommendation out of the 7 recommendations that came from the first media viability and investment conference which was held in 2022.
The Chairman of the Independent Media Commission (IMC), Mr Joseph Egbenda Kapuwa, emphasized the importance of a vibrant, independent media sector in promoting transparency and accountability. He urged grantees to uphold professional standards and use the grants to serve communities across Sierra Leone.
Mr Emmanuel Turay, Director of Government Information Services at the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, reaffirmed the government’s support for public interest media, pledging financial backing and political will. “The government is still committed to supporting the Fund.
Senior Programs Officer at the BBC Media Action, Diana Njeru, highlighted their support for the initiative, underscoring their commitment to building capacity, trust, and resilience within community media outlets.
A total of 14 grantees were officially recognized during the event, representing diverse regions, including Kono, Moyamba, Falaba, Tonkolili, Port Loko, Bo and Freetown. Grant amounts ranged from $2,500 to $7,000, enabling recipients to enhance digital platforms, expanding social media reach, and improving investigative reporting.
The beneficiaries are Liberty TV Online, AYV, Radio Bankasoka, Hope FM, Radio Gbaft, Hands of Hope, Shalom Radio, Kakua Express, The Nature Newspaper, Voice of Kono, Radio Wanjei, Heart FM, Classic Radio and Calabash Newspaper.
Grantees shared plans to revamp websites, launch mobile applications, and deliver content that engages and educates communities. They expressed gratitude for the support and reaffirmed their commitment to using the grants to strengthen transparency, civic engagement, and media literacy.
The event concluded with an orientation session, allowing participants to exchange ideas and explore future collaborations. The initiative demonstrates MRCG’s dedication to promoting a vibrant and independent media landscape in Sierra Leone, ensuring that citizens have access to accurate, relevant, and impactful information.
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