13/06/2026
SIERRA LEONE ASSOCIATION OF JOURNALISTS (SLAJ) 2026 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
REPORT OF SAHR JAMES BANGAH, SLAJ REPRESENTATIVE ON THE STATISTICS SIERRA LEONE (STATS SL) COUNCIL
Greetings to our esteemed chairperson, and colleagues All.
I am honoured to present my report as the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) Representative on the Statistics Sierra Leone (Stats SL) Council. In line with our collective commitment to accuracy, accountability, transparency, and public service journalism, I have continued to represent the interests of the media profession within the governing structure of Statistics Sierra Leone.
Under the provisions of the Statistics Act 2002 and the Census Act 2002, the SLAJ representative serves as the principal adviser on media-related matters within the Council, ensuring the timely, accurate, and effective dissemination of statistical information to the public.
The Statistics Sierra Leone Council serves as the institution’s highest governing body, providing strategic oversight and policy guidance to the Statistician General. The Council is responsible for ensuring the quality, credibility, and continuous improvement of data production and statistical systems across Sierra Leone.
Colleagues, my representation on the Stats SL Council has contributed to strengthening collaboration between the media and the national statistical system, thereby fostering greater public trust, transparency, information accessibility, and citizen participation in national development initiatives.
One notable outcome of this collaboration is my appointment as Co-Chairperson, alongside the Minister of Civic Education and Information, of the Media and Publicity Committee for the 2026 National Population and Housing Census.
This appointment reflects the confidence reposed in SLAJ and underscores the critical role of the media in promoting national development.
Importantly, this representation extends beyond SLAJ and embraces the broader media community, including the Media Reform Coordinating Group (MRCG), Women in the Media Sierra Leone (WIMSAL), the Guild of Editors, the Independent Radio Network (IRN), the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC), and other media stakeholders.
Together, we are committed to ensuring that accurate, timely, and simplified information about the 2026 National Population and Housing Census reaches all citizens.
I am also pleased to report that the presence of SLAJ on the Stats SL Council has contributed to the engagement of qualified and deserving SLAJ members across the country as Regional Publicity Officers (RPOs) and in other communication-related roles supporting Statistics Sierra Leone’s public awareness and outreach programmes for the upcoming census.
This has not only created professional opportunities for journalists but has also enhanced public awareness and visibility of the 2026 National Population and Housing Census. In this regard, I wish to commend newspaper editors, radio station managers, media owners, and journalists nationwide for their invaluable support and commitment to this important national exercise.
Following the proclamation by His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio for the conduct of the 2026 National Population and Housing Census, Statistics Sierra Leone has established three key committees to support the successful implementation of the exercise:
1. The Advisory Committee – comprising representatives of political parties, government institutions, development partners, and other key stakeholders. This committee provides overall policy direction and strategic decision-making.
2. The Technical Committee – made up of experts from government ministries, departments and agencies, research institutions, and universities. The committee provides technical guidance and expertise throughout the census process.
3. The Media and Publicity Committee – responsible for public engagement, awareness creation, and communication activities. Membership includes representatives from the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, civil society organisations, major media institutions, and SLAJ.
The establishment of these committees demonstrates the Government of Sierra Leone’s commitment, together with development partners such as UNFPA and Irish Aid, to conducting a credible, inclusive, and successful census.
I am pleased to inform this Annual General Meeting that, following extensive engagements with the Chairperson of the Stats SL Council and the Statistician General, I developed and submitted a proposal and draft Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), currently before the SLAJ President, for consideration.
The proposed partnership seeks to establish a formal collaboration between SLAJ and Statistics Sierra Leone, including the nationwide training of journalists, reporters, and media practitioners on the 2026 National Population and Housing Census and other statistical reporting matters.
This initiative will enhance the capacity of media professionals to communicate statistical information accurately and effectively to the public.
As I conclude, I wish to express my profound gratitude to the leadership and membership of SLAJ for the confidence reposed in me and for your unwavering support on the Statistics Sierra Leone Council.
I remain committed to advocating for the interests of journalists and strengthening the partnership between the media and national institutions. I therefore seek your continued support as we work collectively to uphold the highest standards of journalism and contribute meaningfully to Sierra Leone’s development.
Long Live SLAJ!
Long Live Statistics Sierra Leone!
God Bless Sierra Leone.
Thank you.
