The Sierra Leone Broadcasters Association (SiLBA) is set to make its official debut on the national stage with a grand launch event scheduled for the 4th of July 2024 at the prestigious Brookfields Hotel in Freetown. As the anticipation builds for this landmark occasion, Stanley Bangura Jr., Chairman of SiLBA, shared insights into the association’s founding principles and objectives that aim to revolutionize the broadcast media landscape in Sierra Leone.
Established in 2022, SiLBA represents a pivotal milestone in the evolution of broadcast media development and advocacy in Sierra Leone. Comprised of 55 member radio stations spread across the country, SiLBA emerges as a non-profit entity dedicated to championing the rights, interests, and welfare of broadcasters while fostering a cohesive and collaborative environment within the industry.
“SiLBA was conceived to address the longstanding need for a national umbrella association that could serve as a unifying force for broadcasters, ensuring their rights are protected and their collective interests are advanced,” emphasized Stanley Bangura Jr. The association’s strategic vision centers on nurturing a broadcast landscape marked by inclusivity, competitiveness, sustainability, and adherence to the highest standards of professionalism.
At the forefront of SiLBA’s launch event stands the eminent Senior Journalist, Umaru Fofana, who will chair the proceedings, underscoring the association’s commitment to upholding journalistic integrity and excellence. The keynote address is slated to be delivered by the esteemed Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernoh Bah, marking a pivotal moment in the convergence of government stewardship and media advocacy in Sierra Leone.
Daniel Amara, the Secretary General of SiLBA, reiterated the association’s mission to foster unity, cooperation, and best practices among broadcasters through strategic programming that prioritizes gender sensitivity and development-oriented content. “Our goal is to elevate broadcasting standards, amplify the voices of our members, and empower electronic media institutions to serve as catalysts for positive change within their communities,” affirmed Daniel Amara.
SiLBA has outlined a comprehensive set of objectives that encapsulate its commitment to advancing the welfare of its members and spearheading critical initiatives aimed at elevating the broadcasting landscape in Sierra Leone. Among the key objectives are: Advancing Member Interests: SiLBA is dedicated to advocating for the welfare and professional growth of its members, ensuring their voices are heard and their rights are safeguarded.
Addressing National Broadcasting Issues: Serving as a platform for dialogue on crucial broadcasting issues such as laws, policies, regulations, and freedom of the press, SiLBA aims to shape a conducive environment for media growth.
Promoting Safety and Security: SiLBA prioritizes the safety and security of its member organizations, creating a protective framework for broadcasters to operate effectively.
Enhancing Broadcasting Quality: Through advocacy and support, SiLBA seeks to enhance the quality, sustainability, and profitability of broadcasting institutions across Sierra Leone.
Encouraging Content Creation: SiLBA is committed to fostering a culture of content creation, distribution, and technological innovation among its members, enabling stations to better serve their communities.
Supporting Training Initiatives: By facilitating training programs and opportunities for career growth, SiLBA aims to empower its members and promote diversity within the broadcasting sector.
International Networking: SiLBA endeavors to establish robust networking channels with global entities, ensuring that Sierra Leone’s broadcasting interests are acknowledged and upheld on both national and international platforms.
As the countdown to the SiLBA launch event begins, excitement mounts within the broadcasting community as stakeholders anticipate the dawn of a new era marked by collaboration, innovation, and progress in Sierra Leone’s media landscape. With an unwavering focus on professionalism, unity, and advocacy, SiLBA is poised to chart a transformative path forward for broadcasters across the nation, heralding a future defined by excellence and inclusivity.
