By Amin Kef-Ranger

The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has honoured leading retail and philanthropic giant, Choithrams, with a Certificate of Appreciation in recognition of the company’s unwavering commitment to journalism and media development in the country. The award was presented during the official handing-over ceremony between SLAJ’s outgoing and incoming national Executives at the Bintumani Conference Centre in Aberdeen, Freetown.

Choithrams, a company founded in Sierra Leone, has long been a cornerstone of corporate responsibility and social impact. Beyond operating a network of supermarkets in Freetown and Kenema, its philanthropic legacy is embedded in the work of the Choithram Memorial Hospital and other far-reaching interventions in education, healthcare and community development. The company’s enduring support to the media sector is yet another testament to its deep-rooted investment in the nation’s progress.

The recognition by SLAJ serves as a powerful affirmation of Choithrams’ role in promoting press freedom, advancing access to information and strengthening professional journalism; key pillars of Sierra Leone’s democratic framework. Through its consistent backing, Choithrams has helped create space for an informed citizenry, a more transparent society and a vibrant media landscape.

Receiving the award on behalf of the company, Harish Agnani, Head of Choithrams, expressed heartfelt gratitude to SLAJ for the honour. He described the certificate as a significant acknowledgement of the longstanding partnership between Choithrams and the media community in Sierra Leone.

“Choithrams believes strongly in the power of independent journalism to drive democracy and national development,” Harish Agnani stated. “We are proud to stand with those who inform, challenge and elevate the national conversation.”

He emphasized that a well-informed society is the foundation for meaningful progress and that the media’s role in shaping public opinion, holding power to account and fostering transparency is indispensable. Harish Agnani concluded with a firm pledge to continue supporting platforms that empower journalists, promote ethical reporting and stimulate civic engagement.

With this commendation, Choithrams joins a distinguished list of corporate partners celebrated for their dedication to building media resilience and uplifting the voices that inform, educate and empower communities across Sierra Leone. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/slaj-honours-choithrams-for-outstanding-support-to-journalism-in-sierra-leone/