By Hassan Osman Kargbo
Africell- Sierra Leone has reinforced its commitment to the growth of the country’s media industry with the launch of a newly rebranded and renovated studio for Radio Democracy.
The unveiling ceremony, which took place earlier today in Freetown, was led by Africell’s Chief Executive Officer, Shadi Gerjewi. The event brought together media practitioners, Africell executives, and representatives of civil society who welcomed the initiative as a boost to Sierra Leone’s broadcasting sector.
Mr. Gerjewi, in his address, explained that the project forms part of Africell’s nationwide media engagement programme, designed to modernize newsrooms and provide journalists with a more conducive working environment.
He emphasized that the company’s intervention is not just about corporate visibility but also about strengthening institutions that serve the public interest.
“For twenty years, Africell has been part of Sierra Leone’s story; and throughout this journey, we have consistently supported media growth and innovation,” the CEO stated. “Radio Democracy is a household name; and upgrading its facilities means strengthening one of the most trusted voices in the country.”
The rebranding of the Radio Democracy studio also ties into Africell’s 20th Anniversary celebrations, marking two decades of operations in Sierra Leone.
To commemorate this milestone, Africell has rolled out a series of projects, with media development at the core. According to the company, Radio Democracy is the first of nine studios across the country that will benefit from renovations and rebranding. The remaining eight studios will be upgraded in the coming months.
Representatives of Radio Democracy expressed gratitude for the support, noting that the renovated studio would enhance their ability to deliver quality programming to listeners. They highlighted the role of Africell in sustaining independent journalism, especially at a time when media houses continue to grapple with financial and technological constraints.
The project is widely seen as an important step in strengthening Sierra Leone’s democratic culture. Radio Democracy, popularly known as “98.1,” has built a reputation as a platform for open dialogue, accountability, and civic engagement. By investing in its infrastructure, Africell has reinforced the station’s ability to fulfill its mandate as a voice for the people.
Observers note that Africell’s continued support of the media underscores the company’s broader philosophy of Corporate Social Responsibility. Over the years, the mobile network operator has invested heavily in education, health, sports, and community empowerment. The rebranded studio adds to a long list of initiatives designed to leave a lasting impact beyond telecommunications.
The launch was not only symbolic of Africell’s partnership with the media but also a message of reassurance to Sierra Leoneans about the company’s long-term presence in the country. Attendees commended Africell for setting a positive example of how the private sector can contribute to democratic development.
As Africell celebrates its 20th year in Sierra Leone, the company has pledged to continue strengthening its relationship with the media. The unveiling of the Radio Democracy studio signals the beginning of a broader transformation, ensuring that journalists across the nation have access to modern facilities capable of meeting the demands of today’s fast-changing information landscape.
With the initiative, Africell has once again positioned itself as more than just a telecommunications provider, and as a key partner in Sierra Leone’s democratic and developmental journey.
