UNDP Facilitates Dynamic Dialogue on 'Partnering Media for Sustainable Development'
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) on Wednesday 6th March 2024 brought together distinguished media owners, leading journalists and communications professionals for an engaging conversation under the theme "Partnering Media for Sustainable Development."
Speaking at the New Brookfields Hotel in Freetown, UNDP Resident Representative, Mr. Fredrick Ampiah, highlighted the essence of the meeting, emphasizing the need to collaboratively explore how the UNDP can work alongside the Sierra Leonean media to elevate the nation to its deserved status.
"Media isn't just a conduit; it's a catalyst for change. By amplifying voices, fostering transparency, and championing accountability, we can propel toward a brighter, more informed future," expressed Mr. Fredrick Ampiah.
Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, acknowledged the strides Sierra Leone has taken towards a vibrant, independent free press. However, he candidly addressed the existing challenges, such as a proliferation of media houses, capacity limitations, insufficient investment, occasional ethical lapses and overall media poverty.
Addressing the contemporary challenges of the rapidly evolving social media space, Minister Chernor Bah called for increased media literacy. He stressed the need for traditional media to enhance its presence in the social media sphere and urged media and the government to collaborate as partners while emphasizing fair and unbiased reporting.
Dr. Spencer, drawing on his past experience as Information Minister when there were only two radio stations, highlighted the necessity for a different strategy today with numerous media institutions and new media outfits. He underscored the importance of increased media literacy and called for a proactive approach by traditional media in the social media landscape.
Vice President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), Sahr James Bangah, commended UNDP for spearheading the initiative. He underscored the pivotal role of media platforms in sustainable development, citing their significant reach and influence as powerful tools for disseminating information and instigating positive change.
The event concluded with an interactive session featuring prominent media personalities, including BBC's Umaru Fofanah, IRN's Ransford Wright, BBC Media Action Country Director Edward Kargbo, Media consultant and Lecturer Dr. Francis Sowa and Awokso's Kelvin Lewis, among others. The collaborative exchange aimed to harness insights and foster enduring partnerships for the advancement of Sierra Leone's media sector.