By Forum staff writer
The Sierra Leone Broadcasters Association has expressed deep concern following the destruction by fire of Galaxy Radio FM 106.1 in Lungi, Kafu Bullom Chiefdom, Port Loko District, marking the third radio station affected by fire in the North West Region within a period of six weeks.
In a press release issued in Freetown on January 18 2026, Sierra Leone Broadcasters’ Association said the latest incident occurred on February 17 2026 and has left the station’s operations completely crippled. Galaxy Radio is a registered member of the association.
According to the statement, the cause of the fire at Galaxy Radio is yet to be established, similar to the earlier incident that razed Radio Bankhi Solofaray in Kukuna Town, Bramaia Chiefdom, Kambia District on January 9 2026. Another station, Voice of Youth Radio, was also recently affected by fire in the same region.
The Station Manager of Galaxy Radio, Dauda Chernor Jalloh, confirmed that the fire caused extensive damage to critical broadcasting infrastructure. He said computers, transmitters, furniture, office records and other essential operational equipment were destroyed. The total cost of the damage, he noted, is still being assessed but is estimated to be worth millions of leones.
Reacting to the incident, President of SiLBA, Stanley Bangura Jr, described the repeated fire outbreaks as devastating and alarming. He said the association was already engaged in certifying its members and mobilising support to rebuild and restore operations at the two previously affected stations when the latest incident occurred.
“We are completely devastated by these shocking incidents that have affected three radio stations within six weeks, especially as we are still seeking support to reconstruct and restore the operations of Radio Bankhi Solofaray and Voice of Youth,” Bangura said.
He extended sympathy on behalf of the association to the boards, management and staff of Galaxy Radio, as well as to the affected communities, describing the loss as a major setback not only to the stations but also to community access to information.
Bangura added that the latest fire has increased pressure on the association’s ongoing fundraising efforts, as resources are now required to support three stations instead of two.
In light of the situation, SiLBA has renewed its appeal to development partners, media support organisations, corporate institutions and the general public for urgent assistance. The association is seeking funding, technical support and logistics to help reconstruct the damaged stations, restore broadcasting services and provide fire prevention and safety training for community radio stations.
SiLBA, incorporated in 2022, serves as the national umbrella body for broadcasters in Sierra Leone. The association promotes cooperation, professionalism and best practices within the broadcasting sector, while safeguarding the rights, collective interests and welfare of its members across the country.
