By Forum staff writer
The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has joined the global media community to commemorate World Radio Day 2026, celebrated under the auspices of UNESCO, highlighting the enduring relevance of radio and its evolving relationship with Artificial Intelligence.
In its statement, SLAJ described radio as the most accessible, trusted, and resilient medium in Sierra Leone, noting that for decades it has remained the heartbeat of communities across the country. From busy urban centers to the most remote villages, radio continues to bridge distances, inform citizens, preserve local languages and cultures, and give voice to those often unheard.
The association recalled the central role radio has played in national development, democracy, and peacebuilding. It has been instrumental in public health awareness campaigns, disaster response, education, and civic engagement, ensuring that vital information reaches citizens regardless of literacy level, geography, or economic status. According to SLAJ, radio’s ability to reach everyone has made it an indispensable pillar of public communication in Sierra Leone.
Reflecting on this year’s theme, “Radio and Artificial Intelligence: AI is a Tool, Not a Voice,” SLAJ emphasized that while artificial intelligence offers new opportunities for the media, it must not replace human judgment, ethical responsibility, or editorial independence. The association acknowledged that AI can support newsroom efficiency, content production, archiving, translation, and audience engagement, but stressed that technology should remain a support system rather than a substitute for journalists and broadcasters.
SLAJ noted that the true strength of radio lies in the human voice and the lived experiences, emotions, cultural understanding, and professional values that technology cannot replicate. It warned that the credibility of radio depends on integrity, accountability, and trust, qualities that must remain firmly in human hands.
The association called on broadcasters, media owners, policymakers, and development partners to increase investment in radio and prioritize capacity building for journalists. It also urged stakeholders to promote the responsible and ethical use of artificial intelligence in media practice, ensuring that innovation enhances public service journalism without undermining ethical standards.
Such investments, SLAJ said, will allow radio to continue serving the public interest while adapting safely to technological change. As Sierra Leone navigates a rapidly evolving media landscape, radio must remain people centered, inclusive, and grounded in professional ethics.
As part of the World Radio Day celebration, SLAJ paid tribute to radio practitioners across the country, commending their resilience, professionalism, and unwavering service to the nation. The association reaffirmed its commitment to defending press freedom, promoting ethical journalism, and safeguarding radio as a platform guided by human values.
SLAJ concluded by affirming that while technology may power radio’s future, it is the human voice that will always define its soul.
