By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) convened its national and regional executives for a comprehensive orientation program, officially marking the start of their three-year tenure following the recent elections. The event, held on Friday July 4, 2025 in Kenema City, was organized by the outgoing national executive to equip incoming leaders with the knowledge and tools necessary to effectively serve the Association.

In his vision statement, President-Elect Alhaji Manika Kamara expressed gratitude to outgoing President, Ahmed Sahid Nasralla (De Monk), former Presidents Umaru Fofana and Kelvin Lewis, and the entire SLAJ family for their trust. Highlighting the guiding principles of his administration, Alhaji Manika Kamara emphasized a new chapter defined by A.C.T.I.O.N. — Advocacy, Commitment, Transparency, Innovation, Organization and Networking.

“Our foundation is solid, built on your hard work and sacrifices. Now, we must deliver deeper impact,” Alhaji Manika Kamara declared. He outlined key priorities, including advocating for the enactment of Chapter 12 on media freedom, protecting journalists’ welfare, professionalizing operations and embracing innovation such as artificial intelligence. His vision centers on building a united, professional and inclusive SLAJ that commands respect locally and internationally.

Alhaji Manika Kamara pledged to rely on the wisdom of past Presidents, now serving in the Advisory/Elders Council, to guide the Association. He called on both national and regional executives to work collaboratively towards SLAJ’s advancement, urging, “Let us ACT! Let us deliver! Let us move forward, together!”

Outgoing President, Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, underscored the importance of the orientation program, originally introduced by former SLAJ President Kelvin Lewis. He noted that the initiative fosters unity and clarity of purpose, essential ingredients for a successful leadership tenure.

Constitutional lawyer ,Joseph Kapuwa Esq. guided the incoming executives through SLAJ’s constitution, highlighting their responsibilities and the Association’s disciplinary framework, including provisions for removal from office in cases of misconduct.

Veteran journalist, Umaru Fofana, inspired the new leadership with reflections from his decades-long career, stressing the challenges ahead but encouraging courage, honesty, commitment and sacrifice. He called on members to embrace versatility and digital media innovations to stay relevant in an evolving landscape.

In his farewell remarks, Ahmed Sahid Nasralla congratulated the newly elected officials and thanked outgoing members at both national and regional levels. He urged the incoming leadership to uphold SLAJ’s core values and steer clear of corruption. Special acknowledgments were given to former Presidents Umaru Fofana, Kelvin Lewis and Dr. Francis Sowa, other key stakeholders who supported his administration.

President-Elect, Alhaji Manika Kamara, also announced that SLAJ’s electoral body, SLAJEC, will soon release the schedule for by-elections in the Southern Region, addressing outstanding electoral matters.

The orientation program marks a pivotal moment as SLAJ’s new executive prepares to lead the Association with renewed focus and dedication toward media freedom and professionalism in Sierra Leone. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/slaj-kicks-off-new-era-with-orientation-program-for-incoming-executive-in-kenema/