The Ministry of Information and Civic Education in partnership with Sierra Leone Association of Journalists on 19th January 2026 observed National Rememberance and Reconciliation Day commemoration in honoring fallen Journalists and Survivors of the civil war at Miata conference center in Freetown, with the team ” Salone Media Dea Memba”.
The Secretary General of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), Edward Marah pledge that SLAJ will continue to defend the dignity of our profession. We will work tirelessly to ensure that the memory of those we lost is preserved, and that their legacy strengthens our resolve to build a Sierra Leone where journalists can work without fear, intimidation, or violence.
He described the remembrance as a day of reconciliation. “We must heal the wounds of the past, foster dialogue, and build bridges across divides. Only through unity can we honor the sacrifices of our fallen colleagues and ensure that their deaths were not in vain and also renewed our commitment to the values of truth and justice.” he said
He pointed out that Journalists are the guardians of democracy. “They risk their lives to inform the public, to hold leaders accountable, and to give voice to the voiceless. The sacrifices we remember today remind us that press freedom is not a privilege it is a right, and it must be protected at all costs”.
Marah said those fallen Journalists were not carrying guns but having their noted book and pen to document the truth when they were murdered.
SLAJ scribe, extend heartfelt condolences to the families of the fallen, and deep appreciation to the survivors who continue to stand tall. May their courage inspire future generations of journalists to uphold the truth, even in the face of adversity.
“Let us leave here today with renewed determination: to protect press freedom, to defend human rights, and to build a nation where the truth is never silenced”.
He also commended the minister of information and Civic Education for his leadership in partnering with SLAJ to commemorate the day.
Minister of Information and Civic Education Chernor Bah said that the National Remembrance Day ceremony is to honor fallen journalists, celebrate survivors, and reaffirm Sierra Leone’s collective promise of “never again.”
He emphasized that National Remembrance Day is not only about recalling the past but about confronting it honestly, mourning collectively, and learning.
He paid tribute to journalists who lost their lives during Sierra Leone’s civil war, recognizing their courage in reporting the truth under dangerous conditions.
He acknowledged the survivors as living testaments to resilience and sacrifice.