In a world inundated with misinformation and fake news, the launch of Liberty Online TV on November 13, 2023 marked a pivotal moment in the realm of online media. With a mission to revamp the digital space by disseminating impactful content, Liberty Online TV swiftly carved a niche for itself, focusing on vital issues; ranging from governance, democracy, and human rights to climate change, women’s empowerment, and disability rights.
Fast forward to Monday, January 13th, 2025, a significant milestone was achieved as the Managing Partners, sponsors, and stakeholders gathered to inaugurate the grand Liberty House at 20 Cantonment Road in Freetown, Sierra Leone. The ceremony was a testament to Liberty’s core values, featuring special guest appearances, a showcase of cutting-edge technologies, state-of-the-art studios, and a welcoming environment designed to inspire both staff and visitors alike.
The event drew a constellation of luminaries, who have left indelible marks on Sierra Leone’s media landscape and society as a whole. Notable figures such as Sekou Amadu Bah, the Chief Executive Officer of Orange Sierra Leone, Pastor Akintayo Sam Jolly, Joseph K. Kapuwa Esq, Chairman of the Independent Media Commission (IMC), Legal Adviser, Sorie Sengebe-Marrah Esq, Social, civil and human rights Activist, Marcella Samba Sesay, were among the esteemed guests in attendance.
During her opening address, Khadija Bangura, one of the three Managing Partners of Liberty Online TV, shed light on the institution’s genesis. Observing the decline in the quality of media in Sierra Leone, the founders made a bold decision to establish an online media outlet committed to holding those in positions of authority accountable. Madam Bangura reiterated Liberty’s unwavering dedication to delivering credible, inclusive, free, and fearless news and information to the public, accentuating the critical role of responsible journalism in today’s society.
Gratitude permeated the atmosphere as Madam Bangura concluded her speech by expressing heartfelt thanks to all attendees for their support and presence at the historic inauguration ceremony, underscoring the collaborative spirit that underpins Liberty’s ethos.
Augustine Sorie Sengbe-Marrah, the legal counsel of the company, delved into Liberty Online TV’s mission and elucidated the significance behind the name “Liberty.” Drawing inspiration from the quest for freedom embodied by the three management partners – Alex Lawrence Koroma, Mabel Kabba, and Khadijah Bangura – Sengbe-Marrah highlighted the platform’s relentless pursuit of trustworthy and factual news, coupled with a steadfast commitment to scrutinize state apparatuses. He commended the Liberty team for their tireless efforts in upholding journalistic integrity and pushing the boundaries of truth through credible information dissemination, using the Liberty platform.
In a keynote address that resonated with sincerity and appreciation, Sekou Ahmadu Bah, the CEO of Orange Sierra Leone, lauded the collaborative partnership with Liberty Online TV, and emphasized the organization’s dedication to upholding fundamental values. Mr. Bah extolled the Liberty House as more than just a physical structure, portraying it as a symbol of creativity, excellence, and innovation within the media and communications landscape. He praised Liberty Online TV as a trailblazer in content creation and production, showcasing unwavering commitment to truth, ethical standards, and a reputation for excellence and quality that aligns seamlessly with Orange’s core values.
As Liberty Online TV blazes a trail of truth and innovation in Sierra Leone’s media landscape, its commitment to fostering a culture of accountability and integrity sets a powerful precedent for responsible journalism in the digital age. The Liberty House stands as a beacon of progress, symbolizing the collective effort to elevate public discourse, champion transparency, and empower communities through the dissemination of truthful and impactful information.
