State of the Media Report 2014

A Message from MRCG

The Media Reform Coordinating Group (MRCG), established in May 2014, comprises of key stakeholders from the media industry and academic institutions in the country including the Department of Mass Communication at Fourah Bay College (FBC, Mass Comm), The Independent Media Commission (IMC), Guild of Editors (GoE), Women in the Media Sierra Leone (WIMSAL), Sierra Leone Association of Journalist (SLAJ), Independent Radio Network (IRN), Sierra Leone Reporters Union (SLRU), Cotton Tree News(CTN) and the Ministry of Information and Communication. MRCG was established as an independent corporate entity funded by the UNDP to act as the key driver of the media reform agenda in Sierra Leone.

The MRCG was established as part of the media development strategy which is the outcome of a study that was conducted in 2013 to map the capacity needs of the media in Sierra Leone. After several consultations and stakeholders workshops, four priorities were obtained which formed the basis of this strategy. These priorities are as follows:

1. Improved ethics of the media through regulatory or self-regulatory mechanisms. 2. Promoting transparent and independent allocation of licenses, handling of complaints and stimulating an enabling regulatory and political environment for professional and pluralistic media. 3. Sustainable and independent public service broadcasting serving all the people of the country. 4. Strengthened professionalism and sustainability of organizations and improved people's participation in media development and content.

The objectives of the Sierra Leone Media development strategy are the derivatives of these four priorities.

The publication of this first edition of the State of the Media Report is a move to take stock of the operations of various sectors of the media in Sierra Leone during 2014. No doubt 2014 was overshadowed by the Ebola virus disease outbreak in the country and it influenced the reportage greatly. Nevertheless, some of the findings of the writers and researchers reflect the state of the media even before the Ebola outbreak.

This report will enable us to clearly see the gaps, challenges and strengths within the media in Sierra Leone. Thus it will adequately inform strategic interventions for reform.

I hope it will serve as a very useful resource to you.

Ransford S. C. Wright Chairman-MRCG

Media Reform Coordinating Group 2 State of the Media Report 2014

Acknowledgment

This maiden edition of the State of the Media Report produced by media practitioners has been on the work schedule of the Media Reform Coordinating Group since last year. As with all matters of this nature and particularly because there was no example of such a report ever being produced in SLAJ to fall back on, the editorial board spent a lot of hours carefully planning what you are now reading. Editorial Board The board decided to adopt this unique approach of attacking the main questions in today's media landscape in Sierra Leone Members by a series of articles covering those key sectors. It is likely that Isaac Massaquoi we haven't met everybody's expectation in terms of the range of Chairman, Editorial Board issues covered or some of the perspectives from which our State of the Media Report 2014 contributors have approached their tasks. Please free to contact the MRCG secretariat with those concerns. We value them. Joshua Nicol Lecturer, FBC I feel extremely proud to have been asked by my colleagues to chair this first Editorial Board of the State of the Media Report Ahmed Sahid Nasralla and I can say without any reservation that I enjoyed working CEO, De Monk Arts with a very professional team of journalists and people who & Media Production believe in the mission of journalism. Williette James Our editor who read through the final copy also did a fantastic Lecturer, FBC job for which all Sierra Leonean journalists are grateful. Fatmata Kamara - Jalloh Independent Media Consultant We also profoundly thank the UNDP for funding the production of this magazine. Ransford S. C. Wright Chairman MRCG Hope you find this work useful. Mustapha M.K. Sesay Media Specialist, Former National Secretary General, SLAJ

Isaac Massaquoi Francis Sowa C h a i r m a n , E d i t o r i a l B o a r d Lecturer, FBC, State of the Media Report 2014 Commissioner IMC

Media Reform Coordinating Group 3 State of the Media Report 2014

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Message from MRCG ...... 2

Acknowledgment...... 3

Table of contents...... 4

Forward...... 5

SLAJ Yellow Ribbon Campaign...... 6

The Media’s Response to Ebola in Sierra Leone...... 7

The Impact of Technology on Media Output ...... 9

Press Freedom and the Law...... 11

Government, the Media and Control...... 13

Gender Representation within the Media ...... 15

SLBC and its Public Service Mandate...... 17

Broadcast Pluralism: In Search of Standards...... 18

The Print Media in Sierra Leone: Business and Practice ...... 21

The Silent Voice Of Ethics In The Sierra Leone Media ...... 22

Community Radio Performance In Sierra Leone - 2014 ...... 28

An Outsider’s Independent View of the Media in Sierra Leone...... 32

Media Reform Coordinating Group 4 State of the Media Report 2014

Foreword

This publication heralds a new phase in the media world in Sierra Leone as it begins to present a yearly audit of the gains and challenges facing media practice and practitioners in the country.

The 2014 State of The Media Report is a brave attempt to provide both an introspective and an outsider's view of the media landscape. It is a unique attempt, because it was done under the direction of the media practitioners themselves.

As we look back, it is clear that the most dominant feature has been the outbreak of the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD). This came with a whole new set of challenges for the media.

The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), being the umbrella body for media practitioners in the country, rose to the challenge and contributed in a unique way far beyond even our own expectations. Journalists left their comfort zones and ventured into the worst hit areas, risking their own lives to tell the story.

Newspapers and radio stations volunteered free advert space and airtime, and SLAJ mobilised over 40 radio stations in the country under the structure of the Independent Radio Network (IRN) to simulcast the biggest sensitization drive ever launched and sustained against the spread of the EVD.

The media landscape became unified and spoke with one voice delivering Ebola messages and changing the narrative from disbelief about the existence of Ebola to methods of dealing safely with the virus and helping to curb its spread.

When the nation became tired with the spread of the infection, SLAJ introduced the "Yellow Ribbon campaign" which has come to be one of, if not the most successful sensitization drives to get to zero.

This year also saw a massive expansion of the use of new media and the increasing threats it poses to the protection of the work of journalists. This was prominently noted in this year's World Press Freedom Day theme - "Let Journalism Thrive Towards Better Reporting, Gender Equality and Safety in the Digital Age.”

This publication is however a first step in what would hopefully be a sustained effort to present a yearly audit of the media landscape in Sierra Leone.

May journalism continue to thrive in Sierra Leone.

Kelvin Lewis SLAJ President Media Reform Coordinating Group 5 State of the Media Report 2014

Media Reform Coordinating Group 6 State of the Media Report 2014 The Media's Response to Ebola in Sierra Leone

By Dr. Julius Spencer society continue to place a major focus on educating the public on how Introduction to prevent the transmission of EVD as well as encouraging people to The first confirmed case of Ebola in promptly seek medical care in the Sierra Leone was officially recorded event that they experience signs and on 25th May, 2014. Prior to that, there symptoms associated with the had been a number of reports about disease. Despite these efforts, public Ebola in the country, the Sierra Leone suspected cases as well as the lack of education and social mobilization Association of Journalists (SLAJ) preparedness of government to meet campaigns were met with varied convened a meeting of its members to the challenges of an Ebola outbreak in resistance from communities. discuss what the association could do the country in the media. This led to Myths, misconceptions, and to help bring the Ebola outbreak in the certain government officials accusing misinformation about the disease country to an end. During this the media of scaremongering. continue to put a strain on the fight meeting, it was decided that since However, what happened after May 25 against it. neither as an association, nor as did prove that the government was In the early stages of the fight against individual media practitioners, indeed ill-prepared for the devastating the disease, there was no attempt by journalists could not contribute impact of Ebola on the population and government to engage the media as a money to the fight as many other on the health care system of the partner in the fight. Individual institutions were doing at the time, all country. media institutions were simply being radio stations should donate 30 One of the major causes of the spread contracted to disseminate messages minutes of airtime and newspapers a of the disease from a small village on prepared by the Ministry of Health quarter page space on a daily basis for the border with Guinea to virtually and its partners. The communication Ebola messages. A committee was engulfing the whole country and response to the disease was therefore then set up to coordinate this and any resulting in the deaths of more than rather disjointed and lacked focus. other activities it thought fit. 3,000 people, was a lack of This was due partly to the fact that understanding of the characteristics of there was no coherent strategy in Radio the disease and an unwillingness by place to engage the media, and, in The committee, which was named the people to change their behavior. A fact, there was no communication SLAJ Ebola Response Committee, Knowledge Attitude and Practice strategy for the National Ebola decided that for the 30 minutes of (KAP) survey done in September 2014 response. after the disease had been in the airtime donated by radio stations to have maximum impact, it should be country for about 4 months stated as The SLAJ Intervention used to broadcast a special follows: The situation with respect to the programme on the Ebola Viral The Government of Sierra Leone, media changed in July 2014 when, Disease (EVD) that will be produced development partners, and civil concerned about the rapid spread of on a daily basis by a production team made up of SLAJ members. It was also decided that the programme will be simulcast on all the radio stations in the country. Following consultations with station managers, it was decided that the programme should be broadcast during prime time in the evening. The programme was titled “Dreb Ibola”[Drive Ebola Away] and was done in the magazine format. Its stated objectives were to: · Provide an early response outlet for the Ministry of Health and the Social Mobilisation pillar of the national Ebola response for EVD issues on an on-going basis. Journalists interviewing NERC CEO Rtd. Maj. Palo Conteh Contd. P 8 Media Reform Coordinating Group 7 State of the Media Report 2014 The Media's Response to Ebola in Sierra Leone From P 7 spread around the country. The one- through the various programmes they · Increase the level of awareness and hour programme commenced were involved in on their radio stations. understanding of EVD by members broadcast at the beginning of This training programme had the of the public. September 2014 and was on air desired effect and resulted in EVD ·Educate the public on action to be every day till the end of May 2015. issues being addressed on programmes taken to reduce and eventually which normally would not deal with bring a halt to the spread of EVD Training of Broadcasters such issues. Music DJs, presenters and in the country. on EVD continuity announcers across the According to a Foundation country added their voices to the Programme Content Hirondelle Study in 2010, the most campaign to change behaviours that In terms of content and approach, the important, most reliable and most were making it difficult to bring Ebola programme contained voice reports used source of information for to an end in the country. and various segments which utilised Sierra Leoneans is the radio. This other programme formats like was confirmed by the EVD KAP Newspapers interview, discussion, drama and study conducted in September 2014 Even though the focus of the SLAJ features. which reported as follows: intervention was radio, the print media, The programme mainly comprised “Not only does radio have the widest specifically newspapers, was used to verified and credible information on reach, it is also the most preferred provide education for the public on EVD from experts through channel with 85% of respondents EVD. As pointed out earlier, the SLAJ interviews with medical doctors and preferring to get Ebola related meeting held in July 2014 to decide on other health experts. Periodically, information through the radio.” the association's response to the EVD there was a segment on the socio- Due to its awareness of the outbreak in the country agreed that all political and economic impacts of the dependence of the Sierra Leone newspapers should provide a quarter EVD on the country. This population on radio for information, page on a daily basis free of charge for information came from designated SLAJ decided in October 2014 that disseminating information about the government ministries and official there needed to be a deeper disease. The SLAJ Ebola Response spokespersons, academics and civil engagement of radio in the fight Committee provided some information society activists. against the EVD than existed at the for publication on this space, but to a Other segments included highlights time. It decided that there needed to large extent, newspapers generally from press briefings on EVD, jingles be more than just the daily one-hour sourced their own information, and spot messages on EVD, audience simulcast radio programme and primarily from the Internet and in most interaction/participation/feedback in radio DJs, programme presenters cases used up a lot more than a quarter the form of text messages, regional and continuity announcers needed to page on a daily basis for this. In fact, for reports on EVD and a skit on EVD. be empowered to get involved most newspapers, at least one page After about the first month of directly in the fight. The strategy daily was dedicated to information broadcasts, it was decided to expand adopted to achieve this was based on about Ebola the programme to one hour. This ensuring that a broad spectrum of In addition to this, SLAJ sourced funds decision was taken primarily because broadcasters were well informed from the US CDC to pay for an it was realized that a 30-minutes about the EVD so they could additional quarter page space in 10 programme did not provide enough independently engage the public on newspapers. This was added to the time to deal with the issues related to the issues. quarter page donated by the newspapers the EVD in a comprehensive manner. In order to achieve this, SLAJ and was used for a half page advert on The one-hour programme maintained sought funding from the US Centers EVD on a daily basis for three months. the magazine format and the for Disease Control (CDC) to carry information content established by out training workshops for Television the 30-minutes programme. broadcasters on EVD across the While television did not feature in the In order to provide some support to country. Workshops were held in SLAJ response to EVD, there was radio stations broadcasting the the four regions with 5 participants indeed a major response by television to programme, many of which are in a from each radio station being trained the outbreak. At the time of the constant struggle to stay on air as a on EVD and programme production outbreak, there was only one television result of lack of resources, funding for EVD. The participants were station on the air that was doing general was sought by SLAJ to pay for the encouraged to ensure that they programming, and this was the national additional thirty-minutes of airtime at engaged the public on EVD issues a reduced rate on 48 radio stations Contd. P 29

Media Reform Coordinating Group 8 State of the Media Report 2014 The Impact of Technology on Media Output computerized and have network terms of the opportunity to compose facilities. This convergence of human messages for the media and the communication technology – printing, opportunity for most media broadcasting and networking – with the consumers to respond to information mass media, has had immense effect on from the media using emerging By Tonya Musa the output of the media in Sierra Leone. communication platforms, such as phones, computers, laptops, IPad, This article investigates the influence As a result of computerization and websites and emails or social and impact of the new information and digitalization, that is, the use of digital networks. communication technologies (ICTs), on technology to capture, process, store Media output is also related to the the output of the media in Sierra Leone. and retrieve media content and the level of media literacy. In Sierra The issues dealt with are the trends global opportunity to network Leone, for example, knowledge about observed as a result of focusing on the information or data through phones, ICTs and their social issues should be proliferation of modern communication and computers, Sierra Leone is fast made available to every Sierra technology in mass communication transforming into an “information Leonean in order to have a sustainable today. These include computers, society”. It is now a knowledge-based discourse on the impact of ICTs on camcorders, IPad, scanners, cell phones, society producing and transacting in media output, access and effect in the multimedia hardware systems, and software, hardware, NetWare, cloud country. digitalization of media content and ware etc., as leading components of its It is very important to understand that networking of data through Internet or economic systems. This technological a huge disparity exists between urban via satellite. advancement has created a space for and rural communities in Sierra new culture and traditions using the Leone in terms of the access to ICTs Today's world has been aptly described as changing paradigms. f o r p u b l i c d e b a t e s a n d the “wired city” or “global village” The cyberspace (or cybernetics) is a communication. Most of those because of the spontaneity with which creature of the ICTs revolution of the participating through phone-ins, information is disseminated and received. 21st century. The practice of virtual SMS, and by Facebook comments in This article aims to shed light on the conferences, that is, through video and media reporting or programming are relationship between robust public telephone for news-gathering and mainly urban residents who have spheres and emerging information and processing, is changing. The need for access to digital technology and can communication technology experienced cyber presence, recognition and afford to pay to remain connected to in the broadcast and the print media participation should be given serious the Internet. Such people are more landscape in Sierra Leone in 2014. consideration by every business and informed and active in appreciating This discourse also aims to stimulate professional practice aiming for this impact. discussions on: success in contemporary Sierra Leone. Most hardware and software are sold i. Public space to deliberate The media landscape is changing in urban centres because of the limited political and socio-economic issues in rapidly as a result of the digital c o m p u t e r l i t e r a c y a n d t h e development connectivity in public and private affordability of network services. ii. Media literacy communication using satellite and the However, cell phones and iPads are iii. Ethical issues confronting the Internet – what Manuel Castells (1996), increasing in some peripheral areas use of ICTs in media communication. refers to as “the rise of the network because of growing interest in social Going along the streets of Freetown, it is society.” The “network society” exists media mainly in the form of not uncommon to see people busy with with interconnected computerization of WhatsApp and Facebook. Some their mobile phones, IPods, IPhones and information services involving community radio stations have just other hardware. Depending on their digitalization of public and personal one desk-top computer for their staff inclination, they are either making calls, information with a robust exchange of and Admin and a lap-top exclusively browsing the internet or checking on data services online. In such a society, for the manager. social networks, while others might be p e o p l e a r e c o n n e c t e d b y Some of the radio stations have listening to radio programmes or reading communication technologies which are printers, scanners and network online news or updates of global sports. used for socio-political and economic facilities in addition to the ones This phenomenon is not limited to the discourses by state and non-state actors mentioned. The digital migration now outdoors. It is also visible in the through the media. Media output requires cyber representation of computerization of the newsroom and therefore, in this context, includes the media organizations by way of digital journalistic practice (broadcasting clear understanding of news values by designing and using websites for most and printing, using a single network in the journalists and society using these of the radio and television stations in form of the Internet). Today, most technologies or their facilities. order to provide real time reports. newsrooms in the capital, Freetown and in Another indicator of media output is some major towns around the country are active media usage by the audience in Contd. P 10 Media Reform Coordinating Group 9 State of the Media Report 2014 The Impact of Technology on Media Output

From P 9 were reported by the mass media. At packaging. The idea of citizen Newspaper production is done the time of writing this piece, journalism or amateur journalism is a mainly in Freetown. One reason for however, a huge gap still exists in threat to ethical orientation and this is the availability of access to t e r m s o f t h o s e w h o a r e application of standards in reporting technological facilities for digital knowledgeable about the correct issues. Some audiences are even production and printing. Most usage of these technologies and can confusing facts and opinions because records are now scanned and sent on express themselves and present their they cannot distinguish between social media, thus increasing the point of view in a national discourse, blogging and independent reporting. need for newspapers to give factual and those who are not. Several concerns are coming regarding stories. This also goes for television A n o t h e r a s p e c t o f s o c i a l the need to regulate social media in order broadcasting. Some newspapers are representation is based on gender to protect people's privacy, dignity and now printed in colour with digital analysis wherein both men and public safety. Mohamed F. Kargbo photographs. Some people are even women are using ICTs in order to be commenting in a radio programme said: able to access newspapers through part of public debates concerning “Government and the public should bear cellphones, laptops and iPads. community and national issues that in mind the anti-social effect of social The crucial issue here is, because it is are reported by the media. media on public discourse and thus easy to copy and paste from the Recognizing the impact of ICTs in should be working on democratic means WhatsApp to Facebook or even media discourse on the need for of regulating it…” download images which create the r e g u l a t i o n s , a r g u i n g o n Using video footages for factual possibility for intrusion on people's representation and participation of reporting is another consideration. privacy, exposing journalists to the the public in this new space, Unedited horror images are aired on online newspaper practice requires Memunatu Pratt stated at a seminar occasion. The SLBC television current much orientation on ethical issues on the Constitutional Review affairs programme, We Yus, for like avoiding plagiarism, hate process: “The public sphere example, does this sometimes. speech, and obscenity. functions as the space in which the In the final analysis, there is the tendency Broadcasting is also going digital in residents of polity come together to to manipulate true public opinion on Africa, especially as seen in articulate and formulate their unmet national discourse. There are several television and radio. The innovation political needs…the political public texters' clubs whose members are paid to is on much interactivity with viewers sphere represents the vital channels send in text messages to every radio through Skype, SMS, Facebook, in civil society in which individuals programme in order to propagate the twitter, etc. Much is required for the and groups can become informed position or interest of the sponsor. The development of interactive high about issues, discuss and debate same goes for phone-in programmes. definition television broadcasting in these issues autonomously, and The text readers also read the chain in Sierra Leone because of the absence ultimately have impact on policy order to make claims to mobile of the required ICTs infrastructure agendas.” The new communication companies on text numbers used. and expertise even where the policy technologies converging with the Going on the social media too there are exists. One such policy is to make the media have helped, in terms of the prominent political operatives who are national broadcaster, the Sierra outreach and mass mobilization of members of almost all groups discussing Leone Broadcasting Corporation the citizenry, in the current issues and at times their discussions (SLBC), digital by 2016. constitutional review process, the make the agenda for the mainstream The second issue is on the effective management of Ebola funds, and the media. u s a g e o f I C Ts f o r m e d i a debate on the constitutionality of the The media reform idea to the above communication. Today young recent action of the President on situation is to increase public knowledge people are highly motivated in public relieving the Vice-President of his about the use of new emerging communication as a result of the duties and appointing another. information and communication development of social media. This Pictures and sounds of those events technologies for public discourse on has increased public space for were shared among the users – development and democracy by critical debates on national issues. journalists included – of these processing information they consider For instance, Facebook and networks. worthy for their consumption. Another WhatsApp networks impacted very Ethical considerations in journalism consideration is making media reporting effectively on the sensitization of the are imperative but one of the crucial and reporters digital through capacity public about the outbreak of the issues at the time of writing is how to building. Ebola Virus Disease. Figures and address the ethical dilemma locations were made available on emerging as a result of the Tonya Musa is Head of Department these networks for users before they proliferation of ICTs in media Mass Communications, FBC. H Media Reform Coordinating Group 10 State of the Media Report 2014

media in Sierra Leone for 2014 in Press Freedom and the Law relation to the POA, it is worthy to highlight and critically examine freedoms of the individual. It states: and evaluate some really “Whereas every person in Sierra Leone disturbing incidents, in which the is entitled to the fundamental human POA was invoked, including r i g h t s a n d f r e e d o m s o f t h e arrests, detentions, harassments individual…but subject to respect for and intimidations; and lay out the the rights and freedoms of others and for divergence of the two legislations the public interest …” and their implications for freedom Section 25 is about the protection of of expressions, not only for media By Dr Victor Massaquoi freedom of expression and the press. It practitioners, but also for other states as follow: “Except with his own members of the public. The Constitution of any country, consent, no person shall be hindered in In 2014, this despised part of the including Sierra Leone, is the supreme the enjoyment of his freedom of Act was invoked many times by law of the land! It has the ultimate expression…freedom to hold opinions, the Police, other public officers authority to regulate the administration and receive and impart ideas and and ill-motivated individuals. of the country, especially on i n f o r m a t i o n w i t h o u t Over a dozen journalists controversial issues and the conduct of interference…freedom to own, establish including media practitioners, a citizens, including public officers. and operate any medium for musician and a researcher, were Contained in it are fundamental state dissemination of information, ideas and seriously affected. In fact, some policies and laws that guarantee certain opinions…” still continue to suffer unjustly in rights, privileges and freedoms – some If one attempts a simple comparism of the cold and wicked hands of the entrenched. It also defines certain the above provisions with those POA. o b l i g a t i o n s a n d d e m a n d draconian aspects of “part five” of the Here are four samples of how the responsibilities from citizens and Public Order Act (POA), one will POA was invoked in 2014: others who enjoy or benefit from those discover that they are clearly at odds. a. “ M u s i c P r o d u c e r rights, privileges and freedoms in For example, Sections 26-36 Attacked, Threatened for Songs on return. criminalize libel and slander, contrary to Corruption and Tribalism”. On the other hand, the 1965 Public specifically mentioned sections in the According to reports from the Order Act of Sierra Leone (POA) is a Constitution. This means that you can be Media Foundation of West Africa, legislation designed to regulate those charged, fined and/or imprisoned if based in Ghana, Joseph Richard behaviors of the citizens of Sierra convicted, sometimes even for factual Abdulai was attacked by unknown Leone and other residents assumed to reporting. assailants in early 2014 for be counterproductive to the stability of For example, section 28:2 of “part five” producing an album “… which the state and comfort of others. of the POA reads: “Where the alleged features songs by some musicians Chapters 4 and 5 of the 1991 libel contains several charges, and the in the country on mineral Constitution - which is being reviewed, accused fails in proof of the truth of any exploitation, corruption and clearly stipulate the fundamental one of the matters alleged in it, or where tribalism.” obligations of the Government to the the alleged libel is general and the citizenry and the principles of justice, accused fails to prove so much of the b. “Researcher Harassed in democracy and freedom, respectively. plea under this section as would justify Kambia”. Abdul Conteh, an But the most striking aspects, with the libel, the Court shall find the accused Agricultural researcher was respect to the Constitution and the guilty, and it shall be competent for the harassed by Police in Kambia in Public Order Act, are Sections 11, 15 Court, in pronouncing sentence, to early 2014 for investigating and 25 of the former. consider whether the guilty of the anomalies in the former Rice Section 11 deals with the obligations of accused is aggravated or mitigated by Research Station at Rokupr, the mass media. It provides as follows: the said plea…” according to reports by the victim “The press, radio and television and During the last decade, a number of and others in Kambia. other agencies of the mass media shall articles have been published and at all times be free to uphold the arguments advanced from various c. “Sierra Leone: Journalist fundamental objectives contained in sources on the internet, newspapers, Arrested and Detained on the Constitution and highlight the books, radio and television stations on Presidential Order Released on responsibility and accountability of the the archaic and draconian nature of the Bail”, according to the West Africa government to the people.” POA and the need for its repeal, or at Media Foundation. Section 15 recognises and protects the worst, its review. fundamental human rights and Therefore, in analyzing the state of the Contd. P 12

Media Reform Coordinating Group 11 State of the Media Report 2014

investigate and report on salient Press Freedom and the Law issues to the development of the country, because under the From P 7 international legal instruments, which application of this Act even truth does must be complied with after ratification not seem to be a defence, not to talk Dr. David Tam-Baryoh, host of a by Parliament; about facts. popular radio show, Monologue, Second, as a country, when we seek Since Sierra Leone is a signatory to was arrested and detained, for support/assistance - financial or many international legal instruments several days for producing a otherwise, from international financial that guarantee basic human rights, program deemed insightful. and non-financial organizations and such as the 1963 OAU (now African He was finally released after posting developed countries abroad, we present Union) Charter and the 1986 Banjul bail of 100 million Leones. He was policies, programs and reports framed in Charter on Human Rights, and that of released according to reports by internationally accepted standards; and the UN, a clear clause must be “orders from above” and on medical enshrined in the revised national grounds. Constitution that would render d. “Sierra Leone: Journalist Fined expunged or useless the specific for Entering Ebola Quarantine provisions of the POA that are averse Zone”. Ibrahim J. Ganda was to the basic right to freedom of charged to court in Kenema in expression. August 2014 and was fined 1 This is particularly because the POA million Leones for illegally entering was passed into law some 50 years a Quarantine Home. He was ago and the context then vastly released and returned to Liberia different from current realities. It is after paying the fine. therefore but fitting to review the The application of the law in such entire Act, including decriminalizing circumstances no doubt contravenes libel and slander. the Constitution and falls short of That way, in addition to the other international human rights operationalization of the Right to laws and standards as earlier Access Information Commission and indicated. Imagine, for simply full implementation of the Right to expressing one's views with facts, Access Information Act, interested using appropriate and legal parties, including researchers, The Public channels of expression, as educationists, students and media Order Act guaranteed by the Constitution, one practitioners would gain access to is harassed, intimidated, arrested, important and needed pieces of charged, fined and even jailed. information that would aid accuracy, The President of the Sierra Leone balance and credibility of a story or Association Journalists, Kelvin Finally, we reference other countries report. Lewis, in a fumed reaction in 2014, with good practices in our speeches and In such circumstance, any alleged said “we do not need part five of the behaviors, so why use a different breach of libel or slander law shall be POA but a nicely crafted media law yardstick to measure the state of redressed in a competent court of law that can be implemented by a governance in our country and of our and treated as a civil matter, where c o m p e t e n t a n d r e s p e c t e d human rights and freedom records? damages could be paid if the court so Independent Media Commission.” It therefore goes without saying that the desires. People within and without the Constitution supersedes any other country have argued that Sierra statute or policy. It is also clear that The Dr Victor Massaquoi is a Leone is an emerging and budding POA, especially Part V is not only out Researcher, Social Policy Analyst democracy and should not be dated, but vindictive, and a clear and Development Communication compared with other countries in violation of section 177 of the national specialist, with over two decades of the West with respect to the Constitution that any other written law combined work experience in enjoyment of democracy and must conform or be aligned with. senior management and university human rights and freedoms. This One may also conclude that the POA is teaching in the US, Gambia and cannot be agreed with on three impeding because it puts a serious strain Sierra Leone. He has published a grounds. on the ability of media practitioners, book, book chapters, and has First, Sierra Leone is part of the researchers, educationists and others to presented academic papers in the globalization we trumpet and we hold government accountable, and Global North and Africa. have signed and domesticated many Media Reform Coordinating Group 12 State of the Media Report 2014 Government, the Media and Control By Ahmed Sahid Nasralla their cause as Information/Press It was Thomas Jefferson – third Attaches to its various diplomatic President of the United States of missions abroad, while others were America (1801-1809) – who once said given ministerial positions. that if it were left to him to decide, he Of Sierra Leone's sixteen diplomatic would not hesitate to choose missions, ten have journalists as Press “newspapers without a government” Attaches. A current special adviser to rather than “a government without President Ernest Bai Koroma, Alhaji newspapers”. With these words political ally of President Koroma. I.B. Kargbo, is former Minister of Jefferson underscored the importance T h e c o u n t r y ' s M i n i s t e r Information and Communications and of the media in a democracy. That was Plenipotentiary at the UN Mission is publisher/owner of the New Citizen over a century ago. Since then, in New York, the Reverend Kabbs newspaper. The current deputy Minister democracy has evolved to become the Kanu, is the publisher/owner of the of that ministry, Theo Nicol, is a former most popular form of contemporary popular online publication, Managing Director of Africa Young governance and the media continues to Cocorioko. The Press Attaché at the Voices radio and newspaper. The deputy play a central role in its success. country's High Commission in the Minister of Internal Affairs, Sheka In a fledgling democracy like ours, the UK, Sorie Sudan Sesay, is the S h e k i t o Ta r a w a l l i e , i s t h e independent media is even more publisher/owner of the international publisher/owner of The Torchlight significant as it should fuel the engine of quarterly magazine, Sierra Update, newspaper. The Minister of Sports, Paul the democratic vehicle by playing the and Update newspaper published Kamara, is the publisher/owner of the role of watchdog, providing checks and locally. A popular columnist, For di People newspaper. Another balances on the three arms of Oswald Hanciles, is adviser to journalist, a former Secretary-General government and ensuring a clear President Koroma on Media of the Sierra Leone Association of separation of powers. It should also Outreach. The deputy Minister of Journalists (SLAJ), Ismael Koroma, is bridge the gap between the government Social Welfare, Gender and the country's deputy Ambassador to and the people, providing the space for Children's Affairs, Mustapha Bai Ethiopia. When President Koroma healthy discussions about national Atilla, is a former broadcaster with created the position of Special issues, and promoting transparent and the Voice of the Handicapped 96.2 Executive Assistant (SEA) at State accountable governance. radio. House, he appointed Dr. Sylvia Governments, however, invariably Directly or indirectly, all of these Olayinka Blyden, publisher and owner visualize a different role for the media; government appointees have an of the well-known Awareness Times they want a media that will advance influence on the editorial policies of newspaper. Even though she later their agenda; a media that will ensure media houses. resigned from the position, her that only the voices of politicians are newspaper largely remains a key Contd. P 14 heard over and above engaging in productive dialogue with the people; a media that will not ask too many questions; a media that will drown out dissenting voices and a media that will tell the people what a great job the ruling party is doing and why it must be re- elected – in short, a media that is pro- government and cloaked under the overused cliché of 'partners in development'. The All People's Congress (APC) government was obviously aware of this 'all-important role' of the media when they assumed the reins of governance in 2007 through the ballot box – a victory many believed was largely enhanced by a favourable media. As payback, the government Apart from registered political newspapers all newspapers appointed journalists that had supported register with the IMC as independent publications

Media Reform Coordinating Group 13 State of the Media Report 2014 Government, the Media and Control

From P 13 State-owned radio and TV stations to a more recently, David Tam Baryoh of Between 2007 and 2015, the n a t i o n a l b r o a d c a s t e r ; t h e the popular good governance Independent Media Commission empowerment of the IMC to regulate program Monologue. This has had a (IMC), has officially registered over a the media “rather than government chilling effect on media houses and hundred media houses. It is no hidden clamping down on the media for free speech because almost all of secret among practitioners that a good professional misconduct” and the those arrested were eventually number of these are either owned or enactment of the Right to Access released with no convincing bankrolled by politicians to further Information (RAI) law that led to the explanation for their detention. consolidate the government's creation of the RAI Commission “that Reacting to this worrying trend, influence on the country's media will serve as the arbiter between the Valnora Edwin, Director of landscape. public and government officials who Campaign for Good Governance “The government has a huge influence refuse the media and the citizens access says: “The arrest of journalists in over the media, and this is not good for to information in their possession”. recent months has raised concerns our democracy,” says Emmanuel Saffa “Government has a cordial relationship about state/media relationships and Abdulai, Executive Director of the with the media,” the Minister points the need to enhance freedom of Society for Democratic Initiatives out. “But that should not be interpreted expression. This trend also calls to (SDI), an organization that was at the to mean the government controls most question rights issues, promoting forefront in advocating for the passing of the media. We respect free speech democracy and enhancing good into law of the Right to Access and the media enjoys the freedom governance. Narrowing the space Information Bill. will limit the participation of H e a l s o e x p r e s s e s t h e v u l n e r a b l e a n d dissatisfaction that media There are so many subtle ways marginalized, and breed ownership in the country is discontent with the resultant now being dominated by governments can influence or control recourse to violence. politicians of the ruling the media without having to send Inasmuch as those rights party. journalists to jail or through the should be exercised within “They either own the media the ambit of the law and are houses or are bank-rolling enactment of legislation that limits not absolute, intimidating them, because they have freedom of expression and of the press. journalists to the point where access to resources. State programs are stopped and institutions don't place fear sets in, calls for an adverts in the few critical media houses accorded them by the Constitution. Our urgent review of press freedom.” and this is starving the growth of the weekly press briefings create room for Similar sentiments are shared by independent media. Most newspapers government interaction with the media Ibrahim Tommy, Executive Director and radio stations are poor and so they thereby proactively giving them for Centre for Accountability and are cowered into reporting favourably information about the activities of Rule of Law (CARL)-Sierra Leone: on government to benefit from these government.” “Sierra Leone's media landscape is resources,” laments Saffa, who is also Indeed the regulatory framework has not the worst in the world, but it the publisher of the Newswatch been largely liberal except for the could be much better. The newspaper. . highly contested seditious libel government has apparently The Minister of Information and provision in the Public Order Act of succeeded in using a variety of Communications, the Honourable 1965. This provision has been used by tactics, including intimidation, to Alpha Bakar Kanu, on the other hand, government to suppress not-so- cower a good number of journalists describes government's immense friendly media houses and the police into submission.” influence as positive: “We are have selectively used it to crack down “Where intimidation has failed,” he providing the enabling environment on unfavourable reporting. Admittedly, observes, “there seems to be a for a free and pluralistic media no journalist has been jailed after going deliberate effort to undermine the landscape. We have allowed the through the legal process of being tried viability of the independent media. unfettered proliferation of newspapers in court and convicted; however, there The overall effect is that the and radio and TV stations and we have have been some notable arrests and independent media has gone into not jailed a single journalist since detentions like those of Bai Bai Sesay 'self-censorship overdrive' and a coming to power.” a n d J o n a t h a n L e i g h o f T h e He cites the transformation of the Independent Observer newspaper and, Contd. P 16

Media Reform Coordinating Group 14 State of the Media Report 2014 Gender Representation within the Media Freetown, whose control mechanisms are influenced by women – the By Williette PRO James Awareness Times newspaper and Radio In this article, the writer takes an Democracy FM 98.1 – proves that their introspective view of the media in major publications and programmes are Sierra Leone. She assesses gender largely based on political issues. representation on several fronts and Another school of thought advanced the relates it to the depiction of women's forgoing argument on representation in sexuality in media contents and low terms of numbers. It asserts that visibility and status of female numbers play a greater role in the journalists within the Sierra Leone selection of media contents. That is to have the requisite educational media. say, a large number of women working background to practise journalism. in the newsroom will influence not only A c t i n g H e a d o f t h e M a s s The gender concept is essential in the issues published, but the extent to Communication Department at d e a l i n g w i t h t h e i s s u e o f which women's sexuality is being Fourah Bay College, University of representation. To every extent, represented in media contents. Media Sierra Leone, Hindolo Tonya Musa, gender serves as the basic category Awareness Network 2009 (online) citing stated among several other reasons, that we use to classify things. Media a study done in France by the that a small number of women in the tend to use the masculine and feminine Association of Women Journalists country gain access into the gender to categorise not only humans, ( A s s o c i a t i o n d e s f e m m e s Department as opposed to men, even but also objects. Those groupings, at journalistes—AFJ 2000) states that though most of both sexes do not end the end of the day, go with “an “French television devotes five to nine up practising the profession. One awareness of what constitutes per cent more news coverage to women reason some journalists put forward 'appropriate' characteristics”. than do the other media—clearly the for not opting for university (Advanced Studies in Media – result of more women journalists qualifications in journalism is that Nicholas & Price, 1998) working in television than in the radio the entry requirements are rigid. Advertising characterises the typical and newspaper industries.” The Sierra However, to address the issue, a masculine as tough, hard, and the Leone situation reflects the opposite. Special Certificate in Mass typical feminine as soft and fragile. All The state broadcaster, the Sierra Leone Communication was introduced by the more reason why when a product Broadcasting Corporation, for example, the University of Sierra Leone but, like a 'table' is being marketed, the has quite a good number of female even then, only a few journalists 'appropriate' characteristics are journalists, yet women's issues receive applied for it. This lack of response ascribed to it – hence the way it is minuscule broadcast air. aroused questions as to whether represented in the media. Globally, the field of journalism has not unqualified journalists were, in fact, Media contents play a vital role in attracted many women. According to the actually serious about acquiring a defining perceptions. The thought International Federation of Journalists higher level qualification in processes of individuals and how they (IFJ- 2001), “Thirty- eight percent of all journalism. go about associating with each other working journalists are women.” In Even though higher educational are, to a large extent, reformed by the Sierra Leone the gender disparity is qualification is essential, access to media. How media portray issues huge. The Sierra Leone Association of constant capacity building is vital if and/or individuals on one hand, and Journalists (SLAJ) 2015 register, women journalists are to achieve how media consumers interpret them records that women constitute just confidence, growth and visibility on the other hand, clearly define 15.6% percent of the 880 registered that will ultimately affect how they representation. journalists. This low representation of are represented within the An opinion exists that the selection of female journalists means that except profession. A week's monitoring of media contents within the newsroom is they work harder, their visibility will five daily newspapers (Awoko, largely determined by the gender of remain low. Pondering that for a while, Premier News, Awareness Times, news managers. Many believe that one is tempted to assess gender Concord Times and Standard Times) when women are managers, they give representation within the media in Sierra revealed that only 14 percent of the precedence to women's issues, and Leone, in terms of visibility, on several 65 percent of female journalists men,to political and economic stories. other fronts. belonging to Women in the Media However, one is tempted to refer to Women in Sierra Leone are unduly Sierra Leone (WIMSAL), an these thoughts as stereotypical. From affected by a lot of issues, including organization with a membership of observation, the trend of issues access to higher education. Only a few 200, employed in these news outlets, women in journalism in Sierra Leone published in two major news entities in Contd. P 25 Media Reform Coordinating Group 15 State of the Media Report 2014 Government, the Media and Control From P 14 helped in giving greater value to the taken over by social media platforms very weak funding base for profession which, in turn, gives the and other micro blogs. They are independent media institutions, has g o o d i m p r e s s i o n t h a t t h e proving to be hard nuts to crack not been helpful.” government knows the value of the because they are largely unregulated There are so many subtle ways media and its practitioners. This has by local laws. governments can influence or control fostered a good relationship Unlike its predecessor, the current the media without having to send between the local media and the government gives high premium to the journalists to jail or through the government.” management of information and enactment of legislation that limits Furthermore, Sesay observes that communication on all fronts, and freedom of expression and of the the government believes the media social media was incorporated as part press. They can do so, indirectly, has a great role to play in of an integrated communications through the provision of career governance. “Sierra Leoneans are infrastructure comprising State House motivations for journalists. They can learning about activities of their Communications Unit (SHCU), and ensure that some journalists or media nation's various diplomatic the Ministry of Information and houses develop an advantage by missions abroad through our regular Communications under which is the getting 'scoops' and 'inside source reporting as Press Attaches. We Office of the Government Spokesman. information', political favours, have also helped to build a positive “We have been very successful so far through extensive government image of our country abroad.” by operating a daily proactive and advertising and even financial Nevertheless, the Sierra Leone reactive press service and a multi incentives designed to induce media still needs to do a lot to media program that ensure the compliance. deliver on its mandate to uploading of audiovisual material on In extreme cases a government can disseminate news in an objective the official State House website and all keep a 'red file' on every and impartial way and the social media channels,” maintains Jara unsympathetic journalist or media government has a responsibility to Kawusu Conteh, Acting Director of h o u s e , r e l e a s i n g t a r n i s h i n g provide the right climate for this to Communications at State House. information when such journalists or happen. However, Ibrahim Tommy However, he says some of the media houses write anything that thinks the jury is still out on whether challenges are sometimes the very might show the government in an the government is effectively slow or poor Internet connections and unfavourable light. Government can delivering on its mandate. the fact that “People use pseudonyms also appoint their own people from Apart from registered political to hide their identity, especially on a m o n g p r a c t i t i o n e r s a n d newspapers (We Yone and Unity, for Facebook and WhatsApp, when they professionals to head national or example), all newspapers register attack government or peddle public media institutions – the with the IMC as independent irresponsible propaganda.” appointments of the heads of the publications, but the discerning But there's a bigger challenge when it S i e r r a L e o n e B r o a d c a s t i n g reader can easily identify which comes to preventing or influencing Corporation (SLBC), the Independent ones are pro-government, pro- opposing and critical view points. Media Commission (IMC) and the opposition and the few that are Social media outlets, despite their Right to Access Information actually independent. The recent many unprofessional shortcomings, Commission are obvious examples of Auditor-General's Report on the use have been quite instrumental in this. of Ebola funds and the sacking of communicating to even the most But should government/media the country's Vice-President and remote areas of the country. They help relations always play the cat and appointment of a replacement, broaden the space for democratic mouse game? Is the appointment of exposed the polarisation of the discourse and the exchange of journalists to public offices media with a good number serving alternative views. Here, unlike undermining the independence of the as surrogates for politicians and traditional media, the owners are the media and, by implication, political parties. The media most p e o p l e t h e m s e l v e s , a n d t h e democracy? vocal in providing critical reporting 'practitioners' come in all shapes, sizes John Baimba Sesay, Press Attaché to on these two considerably topical and colours. Sierra Leone's Embassy in China, issues are opposition media, and Where do we go from here? Batilloi doesn't think so: “There has been a understandably so. Warritay, a Communication for missing link between the media and Consequently, what the traditional Development Specialist, asserts: past governments, breeding some media practitioners have failed to kind of suspicious relationship. The do, in terms of holding the appointment of journalists to public government accountable, has been Contd. P 31 offices by the APC Government has

Media Reform Coordinating Group 16 State of the Media Report 2014

SLBC and its Public Service Mandate By Mustapha M. K. Sesay · Provide, as a public service, Any attempt to assess the Sierra Leone i n d e p e n d e n t a n d i m p a r t i a l Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC) broadcasting services for general with regards the exercise of its public reception throughout Sierra Leone, all shades of opinion throughout service mandate will revolve around which will include a minimum level of Sierra Leone', which is also an whether it is a public service regional programmes broadcast important public service element. broadcaster, or the same old state nationally every week; This point was underscored by UN broadcaster with a new name - old ·Allow and accept limited sponsorship Secretary General, Ban Ki-moon who wine in new bottle. for programmes and advertisement, jointly commissioned the corporation Though the SLBC has a more robust with the exemption of sponsorship for with President Ernest Bai Koroma; and liberal mandate, it is also a state news programmes or from political, who, on behalf of Government, establishment, which, unlike its ethnic or religious groups or p l e d g e d c o m m i t m e n t t o i t s predecessor, the Sierra Leone institutions. independence. Broadcasting Service, is a creature of Its creation was highly prized by the The then Information Minister, s t a t u t e ( T h e S i e r r a L e o n e UN, which intended it to be an Ibrahim Ben Kargbo also re-echoed Broadcasting Corporation Act No 1 of independent and impartial model, the same commitment by the 2010). worthy of emulation by other President. Therefore, before assessing its countries. "We have undertaken the merger in performance over the years, with Considering Sierra Leone's lively and good faith so that we would have an special focus on 2014 - four years after diverse media landscape, these effective broadcaster that will benefit its creation, it is necessary to be clear functions constitute, to a reasonable everybody. The government will as to what is generally considered to be extent, elements of a public service make sure that it remains independent 'a public service broadcaster'. broadcaster, though they are and caters for all shades of opinion. A Public Service Broadcaster is somewhat weakened by the provision The government will have no say in supposed to be an independent, for acceptance of paid advertising. how it is run". impartial and non-commercial radio The SLBC was therefore expected not In what appeared to be a determined and/or television station, usually only to be independent and well-liked, effort towards fulfilling this mandate, established by government to serve, but also to be the most credible and the SLBC crafted a very ambitious advance and safeguard public interest trusted broadcaster, especially for vision statement: 'to be recognised as and help shape public opinion. local broadcast contents and quality the best broadcaster in Africa and In his book, 'The Fall and Decline of coverage. among the best in the world' - a vision Public Service Broadcasting', Michael The corporation was created out of the which everyone must have been proud Tracey identified eight fundamental former SLBS, and the assets of the of. principles as the framework for PSB. former UN Radio transferred to the However, judging from its four-year These include, Universality of new entity. performance, especially in the matter Availability, Universality of Appeal, Sputnik Kalambi, the late former UN of upholding the cardinal principles of Serving the Public Sphere, Creation of Radio Station Manager, disclosed, objectivity and fairness, especially at an Enlightened Citizenry and among other things, that 'a substantial those crucial times of controversial Insulated from vested political and chunk of money has been set aside for national decision-making, how has commercial interests. the SLBC which will take care of the the corporation fared on? Gerard Igyor, in his presentation to first three months of operation'. “We are doing fine, giving fair Africast 2000 (an annual Broadcasting Eventually, however, the UN ended up coverage to the Government and the Conference hosted by the Nigerian bankrolling the transition process and public, but our major challenge is B r o a d c a s t i n g C o m m i s s i o n ) , the broadcaster's earlier operations for operational finance,” said Thomas 'Pubcasting in Nigeria', largely agrees one full year. Thus, SLBC inherited all Sowa, the Admin and Human with Tracey. the personnel, assets and liabilities of Resource Officer. The SLBC Act, among other things, SLBS, along with the assets and This statement was re-echoed by the guarantees the broadcaster's editorial remaining local staff of UN Radio, Director General, Elvis Gbanabom independence, as well as 'insulating' it which ceased broadcasting in March Hallowell, which, he said, compelled from political and commercial 2010. the institution to focus on advertising interests, at least on paper; and also Section 10 (1) of the SLBC Act and promotional returns that would restricts both the level of advertising mandates it 'to provide information, augment revenue. Cont. P 24 and clientele: education, entertainment and reflect

Media Reform Coordinating Group 17 State of the Media Report 2014 Broadcast Pluralism: In Search of Standards

By James Tamba Lebbie diversity of output (i.e. varied media Sierra Leone has come a long way in contents). It is important to terms of standards in broadcasting; distinguish between these two nevertheless, we still have some concepts. distance to go as an industry. A related distinction is sometimes I shall begin by exploring the drawn between external and internal meaning of pluralism in media pluralism. External pluralism exists generally and in broadcasting when there is a range of suppliers specifically. I shall then go on to look (diverse and independent ownership), at broadcast standards in the context whereas internal pluralism (i.e. of media pluralism from three key pluralism within the media entity), is areas: editorial standards; technical about diversity of content. The latter quality, and management – this area might be achieved through laws and radio stations operating in the country. has to do with the governance aspect regulations encouraging diversely A number of factors could be of the industry. Finally, I shall attempt sourced, unbiased output. responsible for this. First, not all radio to draw the nexus between pluralism Generally, the concept of pluralism stations are in the business of news and and standards. comprises two aspects: political and current affairs programming because it Pluralism, according to Gillian cultural. Political pluralism is about is an expensive activity. For that (2010), is usually associated with the need, in the interest of democracy, reason, those radio stations involved in diversity in the media. It is about the for a range of political opinions and news and current affairs programming presence of a number of different and viewpoints to be represented in the are struggling to produce and independent voices, and of different media. The argument is that b r o a d c a s t q u a l i t y c o n t e n t s . political opinions and representations democracy would be threatened if any Government media houses, for of different cultures within the media. single voice, with the power to instance, tend to rely on government Invariably, citizens expect and need a propagate a single political viewpoint, ministries, departments and agencies, diversity and plurality of media were to become dominant on the and non-governmental organisations contents and media sources. media landscape. Cultural pluralism for press conferences and press The need for pluralism and diversity on the other hand, is about the need for releases for news and programmes. In is sometimes associated with the a variety of cultures reflecting the other words, any content analysis of more fundamental rights to freedom diversity within society, to find broadcast media products will reveal of expression as set out in many expression in the media. Cultural that a variety of sources – a key National Constitutions and regional diversity and social cohesion may be requirement of internal pluralism – is and international Declarations, threatened unless the cultures and missing. Conventions, and Treaties. For mores of all groupings, including There is also another side to this issue instance, the European Convention's minorities, are reflected in the media. of media houses relying so heavily on Committee of Experts on Media An analysis of this definition in the press conferences and press statements Concentration and Pluralism defines context of Sierra Leone's broadcast for news and programmes. Media pluralism as “The diversity of media media landscape could lead to the scholar Oscar Gandy, among others, supply, reflected, for example, in the following observations: that the has criticized the process by which existence of a plurality of number of radio stations, especially in public relations practitioners subsidize independent and autonomous media the capital, Freetown, has grown media costs and reporters' time by and a diversity of media contents exponentially, thus ensuring external providing news releases and other available to the public." pluralism. What cannot be said with information to make reporters' jobs According to this definition, the same degree of precision, though, easier. According to these critics, the pluralism is about diversity within is that the proliferation of media disservice is that many organisations, what is made available, rather than houses in the country has ensured including social movements, within what is actually consumed. It quality standards in broadcasting. The nonprofits and disadvantaged groups, is about public access to a range of picture presented is certainly a mixed lack the resources to provide these voices and a range of contents, bag. There is no doubt that the "subsidies." As a result, Gandy and irrespective of patterns of demand. multiplicity of radio stations has others say, the media may perpetuate This definition of pluralism embraces created increased access to media information inequalities in society, diversity of ownership (i.e. the contents. However, a critical look and Sierra Leone is no exception to existence of a variety of separate and reveals that broadcast media contents this. autonomous media suppliers) and are not as diverse as the number of Contd. P 19

Media Reform Coordinating Group 18 State of the Media Report 2014 Broadcast Pluralism: In Search of Standards

From P 31 Thus, while there is no denying that Sierra Leone enjoys some form of external pluralism because of the existence of a variety of separate and autonomous media suppliers, broadcasters have to do quite a bit more to achieve internal pluralism – the diversity of contents and sources. Standards can be looked at from the perspectives of editorial, technical and management standards, among other considerations. A thorough analysis of these factors will reveal a very mixed picture. Editorial standards have to do with the quality of media products. In this regard, one cannot deny the fact that some gains have been made in terms of standards in broadcasting. On the one hand, the argument can be made that multiple and autonomous media suppliers, coupled with several training courses on the basics of journalism and programme production by several Domocracy would be threatened if there is only one view point actors in the industry have contributed to raising the level of editorial to see the forest for the trees. purposes, the use of digital recorders standards. Of course, multiple media The case of the Sierra Leone and computers/laptops accompanied houses also means a fragmentation of Broadcasting Corporation which, by audio editing software in many the audience, which puts pressure on until recently, used to be the country's radio stations has helped to improve on media operators to make better only television station, is a case in the sound quality of broadcast products to attract advertisers. point. It is supposed to operate as a contents. Similarly, in terms of on- The movement of trained and public service enterprise, yet it air/broadcast output, some significant experienced staff from mainstream displays all the trappings of a changes have also taken place. For media institutions to public relations- government-controlled mouthpiece. example, the requirement by the related outfits due to (and including, Until the establishment of Star TV, telecoms regulator, NATCOM, that but not limited to), poor or non- AYV TV, which currently are in their cavity filters be used to protect radio existent conditions of service, means embryonic stage, there was no TV frequencies, and the use of sound that the vacuum is often filled by pluralism – either external or internal processors, among other modern poorly-trained or untrained and – and editorial contents were equipment, in some radio stations inexperienced practitioners. This substandard, at best. across the country have helped to transition ultimately has a very telling In terms of technical quality, it is boost standards. effect on the quality of the media perhaps fair to say that a relative But perhaps one can also put forward products coming from radio and degree of improvement in standards the argument that the greater television stations. It manifests itself have been achieved, especially if one percentage of technological in the form of superficial treatment of should assess this sub-sector against contribution is towards content, issues, one-dimensional interview the backdrop of the grim realities that although that does not seem to have techniques, and news items peppered existed in the broadcasting landscape enhanced quality. The emergence of with opinion. Therefore, if one up to late 2000. There is no denying digital social media platforms like concentrates only on the multiplicity the fact that now there has been some Face book, Twitter, and WhatsApp, of broadcast media outlets in the improvement technically to the extent among others, has facilitated real time country and, by extension, the that the line between technology and and speedy reporting of issues and increased access to listeners or content has become somewhat events across the country. viewers, there will be the tendency not blurred. For instance, for production Cont. P 20

Media Reform Coordinating Group 19 State of the Media Report 2014 Broadcast Pluralism: In Search of Standards From P 19 These platforms have, without doubt, personnel." However, with very few carry out their functions effectively, cut down on production costs and exceptions, planning meetings are a Pringle et al cite Katz as stating that have added currency to news and rare occurrence in broadcast media there are "three basic skills which programmes. But they are a double- houses. And where these meetings every manager must have in varying edged sword. On their flip side, social do occur, decision-making degrees, according to their managerial media platforms have encouraged processes are not participatory; they level." These are technical knowledge, laziness in journalism. Some are authoritarian and sometimes managing human resources, and reporters and even gatekeepers are influenced by vested interests. In conceptual knowledge. losing their creativity in news addition, the concept of designing According to Katz, "Technical skill gathering by relying increasingly on and practically implementing has to do with knowledge, analytical social media contents to fill airtime. strategic development plans is non- ability and facility in the use of tools The unfortunate side of it is that some existent in many broadcast media and equipment." Handling human don't even bother to cross check some outfits. Where these strategic plans resources has to do with "the ability to of the information sent to those do exist, they do so only on paper work with people and build a platforms before using them. perhaps, for the purpose of cooperative effort" while conceptual The third and final aspect of satisfying a requirement by the skill is "the ability to see the enterprise broadcasting standards I will focus on media regulator, the Independent as a whole and the dependence of one is management. Pringle et al (1995), Media Commission (IMC). part on the others." posit that "an organizational system, Some managers lack the capacity to Indeed, very few managers in Sierra including media entities are L e o n e c a n b o a s t o f composed of people, possessing all these m o n e y , m a t e r i a l s , However, a critical look reveals that qualities. And where they equipment and data, all of possess some of them, which are combined in the broadcast media contents are not as l e t h a r g y a n d / o r a accomplishment of some diverse as the number of radio stations nonchalant attitude serves purpose." In the execution operating in the country as a major barrier to o f t h a t m a n a g e m e n t practically exhibit such function, they state that the knowledge and skills. manager is responsible for One can safely say that carrying the four basic arrange "human and physical Sierra Leone is outstanding functions of "planning, organising, resources" within a formal structure in terms of the external indicators of influencing or directing, and – that is, they don't have organising pluralism, which are the existence of controlling." Some managers are skills. In fact, structures within multiple and, to some extent, focussed relatively good at "influencing or many broadcast media houses are broadcast media operators. directing, and controlling", but are not deliberately very informal, However, a great deal more has to be doing at all well in the area of sometimes to the advantage of the done to attain internal pluralism. "planning and organising". At the risk manager and/or media owners. Similarly, in the area of searching for of being accused of subjectivity, I'm Stories abound of some staff standards, it is also fair to say that inclined to say that the governance members of radio stations not being while we are doing relatively well in system of many radio stations in the on the payroll. This is compounded the improvement of technical country leaves much to be desired. by the reality of the country's qualities, we still have a long way to go True, many are constrained by serious depressed media market in which to achieve exceptional editorial and challenges ranging from pure lethargy many managers can't think out of management standards. to capacity and resources. the box to come up with ingenious Planning, according to Pringle et al, ways to generate income for the James Tamba Lebbie is a Fulbright "involves the determination of the smooth operation of their outlets. media scholar/practitioner. He lectures stations' objectives, and the plans or This situation, no doubt is making it a t t h e M a s s C o m m u n i c a t i o n strategies by which those objectives difficult for managers to arrange Department, Fourah Bay College are to be accomplished". Organising, both human and physical resources and practices journalism as Editor- they say, "is the process whereby for the good of the entity. in-Chief of Radio Mount Aureol- human and physical resources are Another aspect of management is Cotton Tree News, University of arranged in a formal structure and the knowledge and skill required by Sierra Leone. responsibilities are assigned to managers of broadcast institutions, specific units, positions and and media houses in general. To Media Reform Coordinating Group 20 State of the Media Report 2014 The Print Media in Sierra Leone: Business and Practice By Tanu Jalloh In Sierra Leone it's fairly easy to set up, most of whom are uneducated, who Newspapers are mainly sold in the to run, to buy over, to sell, to take over provide undocumented information in capital Freetown, and even there the or to close down a newspaper. It is by terms of newspaper sales, circulation reach is largely limited to the central far the most predictable of business and trends. Each vendor has his own business district. In fact, newspaper ventures in this country, usually set up estimation of which newspapers sell houses care less about the circulation on purpose to achieve basic marginal the most. The leader of their 'Elders' of their products than they do for interests. Invariably, newspaper Committee', Alimamy Jonathan Sesay, advertisements. proprietors are more interested in how for instance, told me that “Awareness Some of the relatively successful they are likely to benefit financially Times, has the widest circulation, The institutions that have so far invested from its existence than how the paper Exclusive is the fastest selling in the print media industry in Sierra will benefit from their acumen. newspaper, and News Watch is the one Leone would never have survived this Newspapers are therefore open to that has improved the most.” long – some starting operations only being besmirched, usually by Other vendors maintained that Awoko, as recently as 1998 – if they had only corporate or political interests. It is a Standard Times and the fairly new relied on adverts, circulation and chaotic practice, at best, probably not Politico are topping the 'sales chart' professionalism. Because of this, in adequately regulated by standards regularly. There are yet others who most instances, it is a venture destined because of the seeming divergent believe that The Satellite is keenly to fail. In recent years, the lack of approaches to business and practice competing with The Exclusive because foresight has turned into fear of among practitioners, journalists in of its Mercury International sports failure and the result is sacrificing particular. betting pages. Asked what yardstick professional standards on the altar of they use to arrive at these conclusions, vested interests, in the form of Silhouette of a Business the 54-year-old vendor, who boasts of politics, corporations or ego. Print journalism in Sierra Leone is as having spent thirty years in the Today, the typical success story of a old as the trade is on this continent. The business, told me that they know newspaper house is determined by the BBC World Service recorded that the because they are the ones who fact that it owns a printing press, has second English newspaper in Africa distribute/sell the newspapers. “No strong political patronage, gets actual was published in this country, a year newspaper sells faster than The corporate sponsorship or is built on a after Cape Town, South Africa, first did Exclusive does. News Watch is the partnership of some sort. It may very in 1800. It would take some twenty five most improved because it is new on the well be that some newspapers are years more before a third paper was newsstand and most of our customers benefitting from all of the foregoing established in Liberia. So, The Royal have replaced other papers with it in forms of capital actions, but this is G a z e t t e a n d S i e r r a L e o n e the daily supplies they get from hard to prove because of the lack of Advertiser in Freetown remained the vendors,” he asserted. ownership transparency in the European undertakings they were for a Sesay admits that they are not in a newspaper business. However, it is quarter of a century, concerned only position to ascertain the number of also very possible that some have with matters of government. Maybe copies newspapers print. “It is the been able to get bank loans and made we have ignored that false start in our printers, who are in the production good use of them. For example, all of entire search for answers to the business, who should be able to tell you the proprietors I reached claimed to perennial question of: “Where did print that,” he informed me. However, have taken loans, mainly to journalism go wrong in Sierra Leone?” according to the vendors, they usually recapitalise their businesses. In Sierra Leone there has been no receive as many as 2,000 copies from known effort to keep newspaper some newspapers and as few as Ownership Transparency circulation trends, like what the Audit between a hundred and a hundred and The Right to Access Information Act, Bureau of Circulation does in the UK, fifty from others, for daily distribution. 2013, according to rights activist and for example. Not even the Independent The fact is, Sierra Leone's newspaper head of Centre for Accountability and Media Commission (IMC), which industry has not made any seriously Rule of Law (CARL), Ibrahim regulates the media in Sierra Leone, sustained effort to establish a more Tommy, is not likely to reach its full has the wherewithal to ascertain claims efficient distributing system other than potential and benefit the public in the of newspaper circulation. Because of the Sierra Leone Vendors Association, immediate future, in part, because of this inadequacy, it has been very which seems to lack the ambition to the absence of the required difficult to establish newspaper expand from its traditional base infrastructure, capacity and expertise. business models based on circulation outside the main entrance of the central trends. Here, it is newspaper vendors, Post Office. Contd. P 23

Media Reform Coordinating Group 21 State of the Media Report 2014 The Silent Voice of Ethics in the Sierra Leone Media

By Brian James newspaper was right to publish the not proportionately article – some felt the privacy of the represented in the Ethics in journalism can be loosely individuals involved should have been n u m b e r o f defined as a set of principles and best respected – while others felt that the p r a c t i c i n g practice parameters that serve as tape's contents were a matter of public journalists in the guidelines to journalists in the interest. The predominant view from country. While execution of their duties. Ethical both sides of the debate however, there have been standards are a subject of constant p a r t i c u l a r l y a m o n g m e d i a myriad media training programmes debate as they are usually predicated professionals, was that the photos were organized by various local entities, the on a moral compass, which differs pornographic and unethical. fact remains that the number of from individual to individual. Nonetheless, the publication practicing journalists with a However, in journalism, there are core succeeded in grabbing the attention of substantive background in Media ethical principles that practitioners newspaper buyers countrywide, which Studies or Mass Communication across the board are expected to adhere may have been the primary intention remains small. Secretary-General of to. While not strictly a Code of Ethics, behind the front page images. the Sierra Leone Association of the Independent Media Commission's More common, is the vilification of Journalists (SLAJ), Moses Kargbo (IMC) Code of Practice describes such public officials and high profile laments that, “After graduation, some ethical principles as truthfulness, individuals that bears little or no of them start off working at media decency, accuracy and objectivity. factual basis. A typical example of this houses but then later branch off into Punitive measures have been put in is an article titled, “Christiana Thorpe other occupations. Very few remain in place for defaulters. is a Criminal” published by New Storm the profession.” While these principles are outlined for newspaper on 27th February 2012. In As mentioned earlier, the market for both the print and electronic media, some cases the media has been used as newspaper journalism is quite small so according to IMC Complaints a battleground for verbal warfare few newspaper houses are able to pay Committee records, the print media has between editors and heads of media their staff well. This results in a number been significantly more ethically institutions. These exchanges are of problems. With the majority of challenged. Vendors displaying dozens sometimes extremely indecent with the students who graduate in Mass of colourful newspaper headlines in use of blatant sexual innuendoes and Communication gravitating towards front of the Sierra Leone Postal Service abusive language. An article in the better paid jobs as Public Relations or offices in the centre of town are an Global Times newspaper titled: Communication Officers in local almost daily feature. Vying with each “Sylvia Blyden, Stop Shitting On companies and local or international other for the limited attention of Decent People” by editor, Sorie NGOs, it means that many who are passers-by, they are an indicator of the Fofanah, on the 23rd March 2011, is currently in the profession have not had high level of competitiveness that one such example. Filled with abusive training in ethics. They therefore lack exemplifies the newspaper business in language against Sylvia Blyden the knowledge on the importance of the country. Out of sixty registered Proprietor of another newspaper, correct ethical practices. newspapers, roughly about twenty Awareness Times, the article attracted The few Mass Communication publish regularly. However, since equally unprofessional rejoinders from graduates that do seek employment in Sierra Leone is among the poorest and another newspaper, The Senator. These the field of journalism face challenges least developed countries in the world, publications, though the written that make it difficult for them to put with educational levels being equivalent of market-place verbal into practice the ethical principles they significantly low, the market is too exchanges, attract the attention of the have been taught at University. small to make the business highly public some of whom eagerly follow A young reporter will almost always lucrative. As such, every now and then, the back and forth ripostes. It is find himself working under a newspapers will sidestep ethical obvious that some of these newspaper 'seasoned' editor who is so set in his principles in an effort to attract 'beefs' are attention-grabbing and carry ways that the reporter feels pressured attention and sell their publications. moneymaking intent. Consequently, to operate in unethical ways. The front page article of the Standard common elements of media codes of Objectivity, for example, is both a Times newspaper of June 12, 2012, was ethics such as truthfulness, accuracy professional and ethical journalistic about a leaked sex tape made by two and good taste are cast aside in order to principle. Being objective in news members of the police force while on a negatively influence public opinion reporting can be even more peace-keeping mission in Darfur. and settle personal scores. challenging, especially when it comes Screenshots of the tape, depicting the The Mass Communications Unit at to political issues. The majority of female officer's nude form, were Fourah Bay College was started in newspapers in Sierra Leone are openly splashed across the front page, making 1993. Since then over two hundred affiliated with political parties and will the issue the talk of the town. The students have graduated with a first verbally attack opposing parties and public was divided as to whether the degree in the course. However, this is Contd. P30

Media Reform Coordinating Group 22 State of the Media Report 2014 The Print Media in Sierra Leone: Business and Practice From P 21 Besides, there seem to be no known 30, have not only been vague in their ethics.” (Doing Ethics in Journalism, statutory or regulatory attempts aimed meanings, but have also constituted a 1993). at ensuring newspaper ownership recipe for noncompliance by Secretary-General of the Sierra transparency in Sierra Leone. For potential and substantive newspaper Leone Association of Journalists, example, the Act that established the owners. In my view, this inertia in the M o s e s K a rg b o , s a y s t h e i r Independent Media Commission IMC has given rise to a general membership has reached 900 as at (IMC), does not seek to ensure ownership style that has resulted in April, 2015. “Less than 10% of accountable ownership. the way editorial policies and journalists at managerial level have Said Mark Thompson of the Open newspaper contents have been really actually read, understood and Society Foundations at a 2013 orientated at the expense of internalised the media code of conference in Brussels: “The transparency and accountability. practice. Generally, less than 50 per availability of accurate and up-to-date cent of all practitioners know about data about media ownership is an A Practice in Need i t , ” s a y s F r a n c i s S o w a , a essential attribute of a democratic and Despite all of that, there are more Commissioner at the IMC and pluralist media system. Market power newspapers being registered today. lecturer in media law at Fourah Bay cannot be understood or assessed – or “The number of newspapers College, University of Sierra Leone. effectively regulated – if media publishing in Sierra Leone has grown Nevertheless, the country's print authorities and citizens do not know briskly in recent years, despite a media industry commands some who owns the media in their society. fragile economy and high illiteracy” amount of power, although capacity Excessive media concentrations cannot (InterMedia, 2010). is very low among practitioners who be addressed – or even be identified – Editor of Politico newspaper, Kemo deliver on some of its mandates in a unless ownership is fully disclosed. Cham, quoting an IMC study in a liberal society. That is largely the Public knowledge of owners' 2013 article, said: “Between 2007 reason it is still not an attractive identities,” he emphasised, “helps to and 2009 the print media expanded business for the average investor. In ensure that abuses of media power can from 12 to 33. By the end of 2009 only the same way, newspaper journalism be assessed, publicised, openly debated 31% of them were still in operation. is also fast becoming less of an and even prevented.” There are now 67 registered i n c e n t i v e f o r s k i l l e d a n d To date, there have been no significant publications. Add those on the professionally trained practitioners. efforts to reveal the identity of waiting list for licensing and those Today, a good chunk of those with newspaper owners' in a bid to prevent that have been 'dying off and formal training, usually from the abuse of media power in Sierra Leone. resurrecting', and you will get about journalism school at Fourah Bay As at the time of this investigation, the 90”. College, have diverted to careers in only statutory media regulatory body in Cham maintained it is hard to give public relations and marketing the country neither has any such accurate figures because most communications. There are many authority, as provided for in the publishers do not renew their reasons for this diversion, maybe statutory instrument that established it, registrations. In 2012 the Media still not a radical move for the career nor has it any known initiative to ensure Sustainability Index, an annual practitioners who choose to ownership transparency. IMC does not survey, said there were 74 registered diversify. It seems the only exception want to be seen to be too tough in their newspapers of which only 25 is politics. This notion is largely requirements for the establishment of a published regularly. By October informed by the fact that all trained newspaper. A former commissioner 2013 the number of registered mass communicators are already once claimed that stringent conditions publications had risen to 91, journalists. Unfortunately, rather could amount to denying the applicant according to the Independent Media than the norm it is fast becoming the their rights to own and run a media Regulator (IMR). alternative. house. Consequently, the number of While one is very hopeful that more Because of this, it has been very journalists and related media u n i v e r s i t y - t r a i n e d m a s s difficult for the IMC to ascertain practitioners keeps swelling. As it communicators will eventually ownership transparency and take does, so also do concerns around the embark on journalism, and other action, or to prove where there has been ethical and moral conduct of industry related advocacy occupations that a case of false declaration or players. This is because “...unlike are typical for journalists, I don't see misrepresentation as provided for under other professionals whose roles are that happening in the next five years. Section 30(1) of the IMC Act 2000. more clearly defined, journalists have This is because Sections 28 and 29 of been left on their own to work out the same Act, which prefaced Section their roles and determine their Contd. P 24 Media Reform Coordinating Group 23 State of the Media Report 2014 missions regarding the SLBC, SLBC and its Public Service Mandate including the local National Elections Watch. But the corporation refused to From P 17 completely bias against the own up to this, and instead hit back at Research findings however indicate opposition or critical voices in its critics. that public confidence in the SLBC is favour of the ruling party', he said. The SLBC therefore failed to operate waning, with public opinion weighing To determine what the real truth fully within its public service mandate against its claims of independence and about the SLBC is, it is necessary to at the time. impartiality. The corporation stands briefly explore the broadcast media The appointments of the DG and his accused of either failing to uphold its landscape. deputy were also controversial issues, mandate and being partisan or bias, The importance of the traditional because it was generally believed that like the old SLBS, in its news coverage electronic media, comprising radio, they lacked both the requisite academic and reporting, especially during T V a n d d i r e c t - t o - h o m e qualifications and experience in controversial moments. (DTH/DSTV) in Sierra Leone broadcasting. This is in view of the fact 'The SLBC is still struggling to meet cannot be emphasised. This fact is that both competed against candidates the huge public expectation that acknowledged by the Independent who were well known to be more followed the transformation into a Media Commission (IMC) which competent, better qualified and more corporation…' said Ibrahim Tommy, regulates the media generally. experienced, professionally. Executive Director, Centre for According to its Media Code of Perhaps, this explains why the SLBC is Accountability and Rule of Law Practice, the electronic media still struggling in terms of fulfilling its (CARL). 'constitutes the most effective mandate. But Hallowell dismissed this In the opinion of Valnora Edwin, means of reaching the largest as being part of a campaign of calumny Coordinator, Campaign for Good number of people simultaneously'. against him and his administration. Governance, 'the SLBC does not meet The Final Report of the European Moreover, even where the Act its requirements as stated in the Union Election Observer Mission in stipulates that the SLBC must not [SLBC] Act. Though it also captures Sierra Leone in 2012 states that accept sponsorship for news some private sector activities, it 'Radio remains the most widespread programmes or from political, ethnic or focuses a lot more on government a n d e f f e c t i v e m e a n s o f religious groups or institutions, the programmes'. communication nationwide'. corporation has been accused of Sulaiman Banja Tejan-sie, Secretary According to its media monitoring violating this provision over the years, General of the main opposition Sierra findings, '...in key areas such as but Management also dismissed this as Leone Peoples Party (SLPP), said the news bulletins and election related false allegations designed to tarnish its SLBC has been displaying double programmes, SLBC showed integrity. standards, and 'therefore faces a significant quantitative imbalance It is worth noting that during the period serious credibility crisis.' in favour of the ruling [APC] party'. under review, radio remained the most 'During normal times as 2014, it Critical voices were mostly popular news and information behaves like a public service censored and ruling party political medium, reaching the most diverse broadcaster at some point and state patronage became the hallmarks of local audience and contributed broadcaster at the other, but during the institution. effectively to shaping public opinion. elections or other controversial Similar concerns were expressed by periods, it becomes partisan and a number of other election observer Contd. P 26 The Print Media in Sierra Leone: Business and Practice From P 23 I believe that when eventually serious businessmen, who Tanu Jalloh is the Business Editor at Politico Newspaper and consider qualifications, professionalism, experience and before that he was the editor for Concord Times Newspaper. He merit as conditions for hiring editors, in particular, invest also is a part-time lecturer at the Mass Communication in the media, we will see viability, profitability, Department, FBC-USL. Since 2000 he has worked with at least professionalism and sanity all attained within five years of five local newspapers, either as consultant or full time editor, and has contributed to international magazines and online that radical change. Once this respectability is realised, we publications in the UK and across Africa. He is knowledgeable in will see more genuine investors recruit the best hands, pay political economy of newspaper management in Sierra Leone, them well and motivate them to practice journalism that with particular reference to the power of the press and newspaper matches the best in South Africa, Nigeria and Kenya, ownership. irrespective of the size of Sierra Leone's market.

Media Reform Coordinating Group 24 State of the Media Report 2014 Gender Representation within the Media

From P 15 p o l i t i c a l c o m m e n t a r i e s , female journalists are scared of the opinionated pieces, sports or the criminal prosecutions attached to frequently publish news stories. Asmaa economy – areas that are James, President of the Association, falling foul of some ethical principles considered highly important. Some when addressing political issues in referred to this state of the capacity of female journalists have claimed in women as “weak”. Thus a “weak” print. “We are scared of ending up in many fora that they are prevented jail.” There is also the notion that educational background and minimal by their male bosses from covering access to regular capacity building publishing political stories attracts certain stories considered 'hard'. verbal attacks from male journalists courses, in many ways, account for Male editors have, however, women's low participation in every who might be on the other side of their repeatedly refuted this allegation. political bias. Joenal Sesay, a male aspect of journalism; hence their low One such editor is Moses Kargbo of visibility and poor representation. reporter at Salone Times confirmed the Concord Times newspaper. He veracity of this statement. One female This problem is not peculiar to Sierra believes that few female reporters Leone. The Media Awareness Network journalist, who preferred to remain readily opt to cover hard stories. He anonymous, pointed to a publication 2009 (online) report on “Women opined that, the majority of them are Working in the Media” quoted a media in a local newspaper in which the watch on this issue: “…though female journalist, who is versed more than half the journalism in handling political issues, was graduates in Canada are female, Even though higher educational accused of being in a sexual studies have shown that only 30 relationship with a political qualification is essential, access to figure. “These sorts of attacks per cent of newspaper articles are constant capacity building is vital if written by women.” scare some of us away from Another issue is that of low women journalists are to achieve political discourse,” she remuneration. In Sierra Leone, confidence, growth and visibility that emphasized. journalists are not paid well. As a Responding to this issue, Editor will ultimately affect how they are of Salone Times, Donald Theo- result of this low salary, the represented within the profession motivation to publish well- Harding, is of the opinion that researched pieces is non- female journalists are just not existent. Research itself costs “adventurous”. Moses Kargbo time and money, so the option for many “lazy” and make no effort to rise to believes that, “Most female journalists journalists who are poorly motivated is the level of handling major tasks. do not publish political issues because to publish work of low standard. Low During the one week research they either do not have anything to say remuneration is one reason why a mentioned above, only one woman or they have, but choose not to get female graduate in journalism would wrote a balanced feature article. involved in controversial arguments.” choose to work in a public relations Of all the media houses in Sierra Another, drawing reference from the outfit where she expects to be paid a L e o n e , o n l y P o l i t i c o a n d attitude of female journalists in public decent salary at the end of the month. A Independent Observer newspapers, forums said that many a time when graduate in Mass Communication, Mercury radio and SLBC have one given the opportunity to make their Jestina Manley, made so bold as to female sports reporter each who voices heard in public fora, most admit: “Working in the media in Sierra constantly publishes stories. In the female journalists choose not to take Leone will never be an option for me. If broadcast media, only a few female it. “This is the same attitude they I am broke, my plan B would be to go journalists are bold to discuss extend to handling politics and other into trading.” Another graduate says: “I political issues. Female print media critical issues.” would have to be financially desperate journalists (with one exception) do R a n s f o r d Wr i g h t , N a t i o n a l to work in the media in Sierra Leone.” not handle political articles. Giving Coordinator of the Independent Radio From observation, it is clear that there a reason for this apparent lack in the Network (IRN), a membership are only a few media houses in the media in Sierra Leone, Zainab network that broadcasts issue-based country that are capable of paying their Joaque, sports reporter, Politico programmes of national interest, staff a decent salary. When the question said, “Most female journalists have hammered home the effect of politics of whether they considered their staff to not developed a niche in political on journalism when he said, “A good be well-paid, was posed to ten news writings; besides, the newsroom number of journalists have allowed institutions, only three replied in the editor has a lot to do to guide the partisan politics to influence their affirmative. reporter on this front.” Josephine operations.” Women's voices are not well- Lagawo, reporter, Salone Times, Contd. 27 represented in the media, especially in explained that the challenge is, most Media Reform Coordinating Group 25 State of the Media Report 2014 including the senior cadre and internal rivalries, which the DG said SLBC and its Public Service Mandate was due to a number of staff members who were resistant to From P 24 r e l i g i o u s a n d c h i l d r e n ' s change. These often led to infighting There was proliferation by over 60 programmes. among them, thereby dampening commercial, community and religious "The corporation still has some of staff motivation, relations and FM stations on the radio landscape. the best [local] staff in broadcasting, outputs. They had some degree of freedom of and some of its programmes are Other setbacks were the lack of expression, thereby subjecting SLBC quite useful,” commented Ibrahim government subvention to the to competition in all the districts in Tommy. corporation that will underwrite which it operates. During the 2012 multitier elections, operational cost, which resulted in The terrestrial TV broadcast landscape the SLBC, in a commendable move, struggling at some point to pay staff was dominated by the former SLBS offered some amount of free airtime salaries on time and sustain its and remained non-competitive until to political parties and local satellite link-up, an essential the private sector started investing in candidates. Thus, a considerable component of any modern day satellite TV or DTH/DSTV. number of contestants had access to broadcast media entity that desires to By 2014, there were only three it. compete favourably with others in functioning locally operated TV Disappointingly, despite these, the this digital era. stations out of the six registered with SLBC proved to be two-faced as There was also the lack of adequate IMC and allocated frequencies by most of its main news and logistic support, compounded by an NATCOM. The others were the less programmes were geared towards erratic power supply, in addition to known Africa Independent TV and presenting Government and ruling post-2012-election questions about Kadar Faith TV. Interestingly, the party in positive light, while being credibility. SLBC is not registered with the IMC. critical of opposition voices. These often led to compromises in “We don't have to register with the Even public interest news on operations, including violation of the IMC, because we are already government achievements were Act and the constant review and established by law, I mean, an Act of presented in news bulletins and d i s r u p t i o n s – s o m e t i m e s Parliament,” argued the DG. current affairs programmes with cancellations – of planned The corporation, with two TV partisan undertones, without regards development programmes and channels, eight radio stations and to its public service mandate, thus activities. some highly professional staff, displaying key elements of a partisan Besides, there was also inadequate therefore maintained competitive state media entity, including bias and programme planning and a seeming advantage over other local broadcast unfair coverage and reporting. unpreparedness of the institution to media and satellite relay/transmitting In 2014, SLBC operated primarily go digital in line with the channels like DSTV in the provision of like a state broadcaster in news International Telecommunications local contents and regional reach. coverage and current affairs Union, an issue which Government Its dominance was enhanced by programming, doing public relations has not been able to address. regional stations in Makeni, Kabala, and promotional for Government Regional stations lacked adequate Magburaka, Bo, Kailahun, Kenema and the ruling party. Nevertheless, it facilities, because most of the and Kono. operated like a public service essential equipment were either The SLBC therefore has the potential broadcas ter in its general outdated, worn out, or faulty. They to be the intended public service programming, including reporting were therefore hugely dependent on broadcaster, provided it acknowledges on public interest issues, such as the headquarters for programmes as well its shortfalls and is willing to take steps response to the Ebola outbreak. as for their core operations and to amend them. However, the corporation remained sustenance. In fact, those in Pujehun A key element to justify its potential, generally frail, especially in terms of and Kabala essentially remained besides a clause in the Act its overall administration and output, relay stations, while others were not guaranteeing its independence, is the which could be attributed to a fully functional. provision for the Board of Trustees, number of challenges, ranging from The Corporation also had to deal with comprising representatives from key management and administrative to the attendant consequences of failing sectors of society, to govern its h i g h s t a f f t u r n o v e r, p o o r to honour a number of its operations. transmission, government's seeming indebtedness to suppliers for goods It also has a diverse range of public indifference, the seeming donor and services delivered or rendered to service programmes, including news fatigue and inherent corruption. it in time. and current affairs, press review, news Key setbacks included the weak Corruption, due to weak control and in local languages, and educational, professional base of most of its staff, health, environmental, sports, music, Contd. P 27

Media Reform Coordinating Group 26 State of the Media Report 2014 Gender Representation within the Media From P 25 all levels. Nevertheless, their they need to empower themselves representation in the executive is still Assessing women's representation in with tertiary education and the low; out of the seven-man executive, management positions in the five requisite capacity to become more only two are women. daily newspapers investigated, only relevant in those fields. Gender On the whole, there is no gainsaying two of these outlets had women in discrimination in the newsroom has the fact that the global progress that has management positions. These are not been given a loud enough voice in been made in women's participation in Awareness Times, which has two and Sierra Leone. In the past SLAJ has journalism has been remarkable. Awoko, which has one. Currently, not been sufficiently engaged in However, it does not seem to have had there is no female news editor in the dealing with issues regarding the low a commensurate level of impact on the entire country. There are only two representation and participation of way women are generally represented female proprietors of print media women in the media. This suggests a within the media. outlets – Awareness Times and Sierra worrying show of acceptance of the Since the 1930s when media was Eye magazine. status quo by those who should be introduced in Sierra Leone, women's The electronic media seem to be voicing their dissatisfaction. representation within the media has making greater strides in this area as only slightly improved. The rate of at least five radio stations: Radio improvement has been very slow as a Democracy, Star Radio, AYV Radio, Williette PRO James is a Sierra consequence of a whole lot of issues, Culture Radio and Sierra Leone Leonean lecturer/ journalist including those discussed in this piece. Broadcasting Corporation in residing in Freetown. She holds a Since women are now aware that Kailahun can boast of women in top Bachelor of Arts with Honours ownership and control of the media in management positions: Only one degree (First Class) in Mass Sierra Leone are dominated by men, f e m a l e j o u r n a l i s t s i t s a s communication, a Master of Arts in female journalists have to candidly Commissioner on the Board of the Gender Studies and a Master of assess the way forward in terms of their media regulatory body in Sierra P h i l o s o p h y i n M a s s challenges. They need to adopt a more Leone – the Independent Media Communication, all from Fourah vibrant approach in dealing with their Commission (IMC). Bay College (FBC), University of issues. Rather than accepting the In the area of aspiring for political Sierra Leone (USL). She is married domination of certain fields of positions within SLAJ, women's to Brian James with three sons. reporting by their male counterparts, participation has been recognised at

SLBC and its Public Service Mandate Until these issues are dealt with, the From P 7 corporation will remain unstable; There is therefore urgent need for management systems, accentuated by switching between a public service Government to subvent SLBC in order financial leakages, also contributed and state broadcaster under normal to augment operational costs, or immensely towards putting the circumstances, and operating as a preferably replace advertising; and institution at a disadvantage – an partisan state broadcaster at critical also to provide the necessary resources unfortunate situation that was times, such as during national for it to migrate to digital transmission, confirmed by the auditing firm, Vivian election campaigns, with all their increase transmission channels and Bell and Associates, the first audit of attendant consequences. These standardise operating studios and the Corporation (2011-2012). include loss of credibility and public equipment. Management has also not been able to trust. There is also the need for harmonising account for all its assets to date. It will also remain highly dependent the institution, reducing operational These prevailing circumstances on advertising returns, limited costs, the introduction of strong pressured the institution to put sponsorships and public support, and financial control measures and premium on advertising revenue, Government 'bailouts' in the case of downsizing of staff – which the especially in the absence of a regular eventualities. government has been accused of source of funding for operations. blocking. The situation, though dismal, is not Mustapha M. K. Sesay holds a The Act also needs to be reviewed to intractable, because there are a number postgraduate degree in Mass remove advertising permit and include of options still available to SLBC, Communications & Bsc in the Mass Communication Department particularly in the areas of staff Education. He is a Media/ on the Board of Trustees and probably capacity building, institutional Communications Specialist, remove the so called 'Civil Society s t r e n g t h e n i n g , t e c h n o l o g i c a l Human Rights Activist & former Sierra Leone' Representative. advancement and attitudinal change. SLAJ National Sec. Gen. Media Reform Coordinating Group 27 State of the Media Report 2014 Community Radio performance in Sierra Leone - 2014

This article examines the community radio broadcasting sector in Sierra Leone in 2014 in terms of its mission, which is primarily to give voice to the vast majority of people in rural areas who cannot access mainstream and social media. The central focus is: If and how community media have performed in terms of meeting the expectations of providing access to information and creating a platform for marginalised voices.

By Francis Sowa

Community radio broadcasting Leone. Bo district is the only one in 2014. All of them highlighted their started in Sierra Leone a little over without a community radio station. coverage of Ebola and its related issues twenty years ago. The first Community radios generally as the key activity undertaken during community radio station, known as broadcast content that is quite the year under review. 'Radio Makneh', set up by the popular to a local audience, but Apart from Ebola issues, Hassan We s l e y a n M i s s i o n , s t a r t e d which may often be overlooked by Yamba Koroma, Station Manager, broadcasting in 1994. Since then, commercial or mass-media Radio Gbafth (FM 91) in Mile 91, community radio stations have been broadcasters. The IMC Media Code Tonkolili District, said they were also established in almost all districts in of Practice defines a community involved in the promotion of girl-child the country. Their history is relatively radio as: "One, which is for, by and education, promotion of commercial short compared to what is now the about the community, whose agricultural activities, local governance country's public service radio, the ownership and management is and justice, security and gender Issues. S i e r r a L e o n e B ro a d c a s t i n g representative of the community, Ahmed Kallon, General Manager of Corporation (SLBC), which started which pursues social development Eastern Radio, Kenema, said they as the Redifussion Relay Service agenda and which is not for profit." embarked on capacity building of staff (RRS) on 7th May 1934 and was later A community radio is one of the and volunteers in 2014, while Edward inaugurated as the Sierra Leone components within the broader Sesay, Station Manager, Voice of the Broadcasting Service (SLBS) in context of the term, community Peninsular (Radio Tombo), revealed October 1955 (Cole, 1995, Holmes media. The phrase "community that they embarked on fund-raising 1998). Although they have made media" encompasses a range of shows and an inter-village football gala enormous gains in their operations, community-based activities competition to sustain the radio station. they have also faced numerous intended to supplement, challenge, According to Foday Sulaiman challenges. or change the operating principles, Dumbuya, Station Manager, Radio The UNESCO's Media Development structures, financing, and cultural Kolenten, they requested the Kambia Indicators (MDIs) on community forms and practices associated with community to purchase a transmitter media dealing with issues like, dominant media" (Tacchi, Slater, & costing $5,000, which the community whether mechanisms such as public Lewis, 2003 cited in Howley K. did, and they also embarked on cross- hearings for communities to give 2010). border radio programmes into Guinea their mandate to a community Like their counterparts in other parts following requests from Guineans. broadcaster and to renew that of the world, community radio The lack of funds to retain trained staff mandate at regular intervals exist, stations are an important part of the members and to sustain the operations community-based mechanisms for media landscape. "They make up of the station, insufficient equipment, evaluating community media exist, one of a three-tier system of radio, limited resources for field and the State takes positive measures to the other parts being public service production activities and the low level support community broadcast media, and commercial radio. They were set of women's participation on radio and CSOs assist community up to provide a platform for programmes, were highlighted as the broadcast media, were utilised in communities to communicate major challenges encountered in 2014 examining the performance of between themselves and with their by almost all the community radio community media. governments without interference" stations. General Manager, Kallon Currently, Sierra Leone has over (The Healthy Community Radio added that, "Eastern Radio, Kono was thirty community radio stations Station, 2013). attacked by youths who damaged registered with the country's media Managers of five community radio furniture, an air-conditioner and the regulatory body, the Independent stations in all the regions were main door to the station. M e d i a C o m m i s s i o n ( I M C ) . interviewed about their performance Community radios are present in 13 The incident occurred Contd.following P 34 an of the 14 political districts in Sierra Media Reform Coordinating Group 28 State of the Media Report 2014 The Media's Response to Ebola in Sierra Leone

February 2015. This was a campaign that was deployed through print, electronic and social media and drew on the unique strength of SLAJ whose membership is spread across the country. The yellow ribbon was used as a symbol of commitment of individuals, groups, institutions and communities to take action in four specific areas in order to achieve zero Ebola infection rate in the shortest possible time. These were SLAJ President Kelvin Lewis & NERC CEO Rtd. Maj. Palo Conteh presented as the following action during the launch of the Yellow Ribbon Campaign points: From P 8 happening, but also advocating lBury all dead bodies safely public service broadcaster, Sierra change of behaviour. It was believed lKeep sick people away from others Leone Broadcasting Corporation that those behaviours that were lSpeak out if you know of a sick Television (SLBC TV). militating against the reduction and person eventual halt of the spread of the l“Contacts” must stay in one area In order to respond to the outbreak, disease had to be changed and the with food and water t h e s t a t i o n m o d i f i e d i t s media could play a major role in The media was used as the primary programming and created new advocating for this change of vehicle to drive the campaign and to programmes specific to the EVD and behaviour. Exposing the failings in seek the required commitment. also incorporated EVD issues in the national Ebola response at the time Individuals were encouraged to existing programmes. Popular the outbreak was at its peak would wear the yellow ribbon as a sign of programmes like the news magazine have diverted attention and reinforced their commitment to the action programme “Wey Yus” carried negative perceptions, thus making it points and SLAJ provided yellow reports related to EVD in almost more difficult for the desired wrist bands that became quite every edition of the programme. behaviour change to be achieved. popular. This approach resulted in a significant From Adversarial Journalism reduction in publications that were Why Yellow? to Advocacy critical of the Ebola response, thus Being the lightest hue of the colour Traditionally, journalism in Sierra providing space for education and spectrum, the colour psychology of Leone, in relation to government sensitization of the public on EVD and yellow is uplifting and illuminating, activities, is generally adversarial the actions individuals and o ff e r i n g h o p e , h a p p i n e s s , and seeks to expose failures and communities needed to take to bring cheerfulness and fun. Yellow is w r o n g d o i n g . T h i s m a k e s the outbreak to an end. This approach creative from a mental aspect, the government officials very wary of is no doubt debatable on the basis of colour of new ideas, helping us to journalists and journalists generally the traditional role of the media. find new ways of doing things. suspicious of them. During the EVD However, it is believed that it Yellow is the colour of the sun. It is outbreak, however, there was a contributed significantly to the the first colour you see if you watch conscious effort on the part of generally united front with which the the rising sun. It therefore signifies journalists to change their approach public confronted the disease in Sierra a new dawn, the birth of a new day, from one which seeks to expose the Leone. the hope of things to come. Above failings of government and its all, yellow is the easiest colour to see officials, to more of advocacy. The Yellow Ribbon Campaign and therefore the most attention This shift was instigated by the SLAJ The activity that best illustrates the grabbing of all the colours. Ebola Response Committee which shift from adversarial journalism to SLAJ believed the symbolism of saw a need to focus the media's work advocacy, is the yellow ribbon yellow was most appropriate for the on not only providing information or campaign designed and implemented campaign because by February generally reporting what was by SLAJ that was launched in 2015, Contd. P 33

Media Reform Coordinating Group 29 State of the Media Report 2014 The Silent Voice of Ethics in the Sierra Leone Media

From P 22 that most newspaper houses are unable inaccuracy, among other things. In defend their own, regardless of the to provide high financial incentives for spite of these powers at its disposal, the circumstances. Not surprisingly, their reporters means that invariably IMC has been harshly criticized in the during National Election campaigns, the need to meet financial goals media, accused of being 'inept' ethics are all but discarded as supersedes the crucial need for (Awareness Times, 21st February, journalists descend into propaganda journalistic integrity. The so-called 2011) 'toothless' and 'somewhat journalism, character assassination 'brown envelope' journalism, which biased' (The Senator, 2011). and mudslinging in an effort to refers to the writing of news articles to As members of society, journalists promote their publications' agenda. favour or disfavour an individual or have a finger on the pulse of the Reporters are often faced with the entity in return for a cash reward, is a public's expectations regarding media choice of either conforming to the very real, if unfortunate, phenomenon. coverage. The slew of sensationalized status quo of their newspaper or Such articles almost always headlines that are rarely supported by seeking employment elsewhere. compromise fundamental journalistic thoroughly researched content reflects The lead up to the 2012 National principles of accuracy and balance. a flawed interpretation of society's Presidential Elections saw the Despite the enactment of the Freedom expectations. Values of truth, decency publication of such articles as, “SLPP of Information Law in 2013, and modesty are deeply rooted in local Presidential Aspirant is a Drug bureaucratic red tape in government culture and religion, yet it is not often Dealer” in The Senator of 26th July, and corporate entities continues to that members of society publically 2011. The Sierra Express Media hamper journalists in their search for criticize media content that lacks these published a cartoon on 1st qualities. Radio talk August, 2011 that depicted shows have presented the First Lady giving money A tour of media institutions conducted by platforms for the public to to one Florence Kattah in the IMC in 2012 revealed that the c o m m e n t o n m e d i a return for political support. coverage of certain issues This newspaper made no majority of them had no conclusive via phone-in, but any attempt whatsoever to house rules or codes for ethical conduct. effect this has had on the provide a factual basis for That is not to suggest, however, that all of quality of media content is such a serious accusation. In m i n i m a l , a t b e s t . an adjoining article titled: them routinely fall foul of ethical issues Discussions on media “Stop the Talking You Big Fat ethics specifically, are virtually non-existent. Hog”, the said Florence information. Consequently, journalists Individuals and entities frequently Kattah is referred to as a “big fat hog”. who are unable to afford the bring matters of libel and defamation The 2012 elections were largely a race wherewithal to go in search of added before the IMC Complaints between the All People's Congress information to provide a balanced Committee but society, in general, has (APC) and the Sierra Leone People's story will publish whatever is easily not taken a stance against unethical Party (SLPP). As such, many accessible. As such, they end up behaviour in the media. In 1999 the newspapers were quick to make their misinforming their readers or publication of semi naked pictures of associations known and the mud providing insufficient data. Sophie Rhys-Jones, the fiancée of began to fly. The smear campaign Whether ethical standards are mired Prince Edward in The Sun newspaper launched by Awareness Times against down by a harsh environment or of Britain, resulted in a campaign the SLPP candidate, Julius Maada Bio, deliberately sidestepped for personal against tabloid newspapers. Opinion was an indelible feature of the media gain, IMC is charged with the polls showed that three out of four atmosphere. In their support of the responsibility of monitoring media newspaper readers favored laws to rival parties, the refusal by these two activity in Sierra Leone and enforcing curb the deliberate entrapment of papers to provide balance in their penalties on offenders. Section 1b of people by reporters (The Christian respective articles was an indication the revised Media Code of Practice Science Monitor June 1, 1999). that their main intent was to attack titled: “Code of Practice Governing Ultimately The Sun was forced to their opponents, regardless of what the the Print Media”, deals specifically make a rare apology. The Sierra truth was. with infringements that cross ethical Leonean society is yet to present a At journalistic fora, journalists have boundaries. It carries penalties of fines unified front against unacceptable often complained about unfavourable ranging from one million leones to media behavior. working conditions that cause the low twenty million leones for such level reporting, which every so often infringements as harassment, crosses ethical boundaries. The fact character assassination, indecency or Contd. P 31

Media Reform Coordinating Group 30 State of the Media Report 2014

The Silent Voice of Ethics in the Sierra Leone Media From P 30 regulatory role for all its members. It is uncertain whether this is due to the fact that society is Raising ethical standards in the Sierra Leone media is not a insensitive to the issue or simply because it accepts it as the complex issue. Whether ethical breaches are a result of general local standard. ignorance or deliberate self-seeking, unless the provisions A tour of media institutions conducted by the IMC in 2012 in the IMC Code of Practice and Act are stringently revealed that the majority of them had no conclusive house observed, the trend is bound to continue. Also, media rules or codes for ethical conduct. That is not to suggest, literacy needs to be integrated into society so that consumers however, that all of them routinely fall foul of ethical issues. see it as their civic responsibility to more forcefully raise Newspapers such as Politico, Awoko, Concord Times and objections about unethical media activities. Premier News have largely been able to stay out of the IMC Complaints Committee radar. While they may not all have Brian James is a Writer and journalist. His publications written-down house rules, these papers and a few others include short stories in various anthologies; On the Road exercise a level of self-regulation regardless of prevailing to Godiva (Book of Voices, 2005), Devils at the Door circumstances. In them, professionalism is prioritized over (Dreams, Miracles and Jazz, 2008), Simple Economics the need for commercial gain and, whether as a consequence (Caine Prize for African Writing – Work In Progress, of this or not, some of them are among the top selling 2009) and The Dark Man (The Price and other Stories, newspapers in the country. 2013).He holds a First Class B.A Honours degree in Mass The electronic media has generally adhered to ethical Communication from the Fourah Bay College University standards despite one or two scattered incidents, one of of Sierra Leone. which involved the closure of two politically-owned radio He is currently the consultant editor at Sierra Eye stations for incitement. The Sierra Leone Association of magazine. He lives in Freetown with his wife Williette and Journalists is, nonetheless, working on taking on a more three children.

From P 14 Government, the Media and Control “We can criticize government on many fronts for their citizenry pressures. seeming unwillingness to effect a positive and enabling “When we start walking this road, people will take us environment for media development, but the bulk of the seriously,” he notes. responsibility rests with media practitioners.” “Our media scene,” he maintains, “is characterized more by our unprofessional approaches in practice, our non- Ahmed Sahid Nasralla (popularly known by his alias objective and partisan commentary and sadly, among De Monk) is an award winning journalist and some, our lack of integrity.” cartoonist with up to 15 years experience working in the Media professionals across the board, Warritay says, Sierra Leone print media. He is popular for his satirical should demand excellence in their delivery, remain column, Teacher Lemp Lemp, which is a product of his steadfast in searching for the truth, stay above reproach in creative writing skills and artistic talent. their dealings with all and unyielding to Government and

Media Reform Coordinating Group 31 State of the Media Report 2014 An Outsider's View Of The Media In Sierra Leone are concerned, leaving one to conclude that there is much room for By Winstanley R. Bankole Johnson improvement. I shall treat each segment briefly on its merit. Thematic Streams Coverage Journalism as a vocation or profession THE PRINT MEDIA It has to be agreed though that one has existed from time immemorial, In this segment, sensationalism is notable difference between the two is but it wasn't until May of 2011 at the the order of the day, with the that in recent years, the area of graduation ceremonies of my last bodyline or narrative reflecting a coverage by the electronic media has daughter, Cheryl Olatokunbo with a total disconnect from screaming grown exponentially, courtesy of the first degree in Print Journalism from h e a d l i n e s . S y n t a x i s l o s t Media Reform Co-ordinating Group the Virginia Commonwealth ubiquitously in reportages, leaving Sierra Leone (MRCG-SL) and their University, that I became aware of the the reading public unprofessionally local and international partners. The various thematic streams of short-changed in value. print media dissemination and Journalism. These include: Public Objectivity is often subsumed by circulation would seem not to have Relations; Broadcast Journalism; insinuations of practitioners grown beyond the same bounds that C r e a t i v e A d v e r t i s i n g ; P r i n t deliberately slanting opinions in existed since the eighties volume-wise Journalism and Strategic Advertising. f a v o u r o f c o u n t e r- p a r t i e s ; per capita population in the major Advanced Certificates are also aspersions become couched in provincial towns and cities, as is obtainable at Masters Level in specious attempts to intimidate commensurate with the population “Strategic Public Relations” and innocent and peaceful citizens growth in those areas. “Multi-Media Journalism”. unable or reluctant to seek legal redress for defamation of character.. Powers Specialization What the readership is interested in As Jeffrey Blant, former senior The primary objectives of the media is information, education and Director of the NBC News once said, generally being to “inform, educate entertainment updates – not “Anyone who communicates for a and entertain”, advanced countries diatribes and mudslinging between living has enormous powers”. That have, over time, further broadened and amongst giant protagonists. But aptly describes how impactful the those thematic streams to foster what they invariably become media can be depending, of course, on s p e c i a l i z a t i o n , e n h a n c e exposed to are press wars, waged the skill and articulating prowess of professionalism and the technical either directly between editorial the practitioner. It is sad to note savvy of the practitioners, in the same giants or as political proxies, for however that that dictum is rarely way other professions have re- contract fees. h a r n e s s e d b y l o c a l m e d i a engineered their disciplines to achieve practitioners, of course to their social greater specialization amongst their THE ELECTRONIC MEDIA detriment. cadres, sustain their relevance and also The demerits of the print media are Accepted, new recruitment vistas have mitigate unethical tendencies likely to also akin to the electronic media, complimented the exponential outturn bring their memberships into except that in the latter case it is of practitioners, so we now have disrepute. Thus, in Medicine and Law much easier to discern fickle- Communications Officers attached to for example, opportunities exist for minded moderators. Their choice of MDAs, including our Foreign the practitioners to become questions are either extremely Missions and major multi-national specialized to better capacitate them watered-down or posed in a leading institutions mindful of their corporate for quality service delivery to patients way, even as interventions of image. But, more in the case of our and clients alike. panelist or callers with dissenting M D A s , o b j e c t i v i t y b e c o m e s One cannot say with any degree of views are interrupted or have their subsumed apparently for political or certainty whether those same calls distorted, all of which do not pecuniary gains, or outright mercenary opportunities for specialization exist reflect professionalism or a desire to intentions. for our media practitioners beyond the grow. Thankfully, unlike the print Hazards award of their “general” or “honours” media where one is stuck with One cannot discuss the media in Sierra certificates in Mass Communication newspapers purchased, a listener to Leone without making reference to from the University, but practical an electronic airwave is always some of the occupational hazards – evidences would seem to suggest the spoilt for choice and can exercise perceived or actual – to which media contrary, insofar as “informing, that right as it pleases him or her by practitioners become occasionally educating and entertaining” the public switching to alternative frequencies. exposed, Contd. P33

Media Reform Coordinating Group 32 State of the Media Report 2014 An Outsider's View Of The Media's Response to The Media In Sierra Leone Ebola in Sierra Leone From P 32 From P 29 and which, to some extent, can be said to constitute the country was at a point in the fight against the EVD where some of the factors inhibiting their performance. there was hope of bringing it to an end. True the Public Order Act of 1965 might be having The campaign sought to, while committing individuals, groups, some severe restrictions on their overall output, but institutions and communities to taking the action required to given the number and frequency of enforced or achieve zero new infections, also celebrate those frontline voluntary retractions and apologies published by workers that had paid with their lives, those who continued offending Editors emanating from various genuine putting their lives at risk and those citizens that had survived complainants, it would not be unreasonable to being infected with the virus. suggest that 60% of risks media practitioners become exposed to are self-inflicted. Impact The Initiative was seen as a good way to re-energise social Vanilla Practitioners mobilisation activities to bring an end to the EVD outbreak in My respectful submission is that with a little bit the country and was supported by a number of UN agencies. more research, investigative analysis and Eventually it was adopted as a means of galvanising women to objectivity, those risks could be diminished or even take the lead in the struggle to achieve and maintain zero avoided once local media practitioners are able to infection rate for the required 42 days for the country to be distinguish between personal opinions and facts. declared Ebola free. And that is where “Vanilla Practitioners”, that is, those lacking in specialization, irrespective of their Conclusion years in the trade, fall prey. The need for In conclusion, it must be stated that without the media in Sierra s p e c i a l i z a t i o n t h e r e f o r e c a n n o t b e Leone, it would have been impossible to end the EVD outbreak overemphasized. And that is the difference in the country. Apart from the fact that the agencies working on between the media here and that in the civilized social mobilisation against the EVD made extensive use of the world, where correspondents and reporters media to be able to reach a mass audience, he interventions of manifest such exceptional skills in specific areas SLAJ played a major role not only in providing accurate and such as the Theatre and Arts, Music, Law, timely information to the public about the disease, but also in Medicine, Aviation; Education, the Sciences, building a sense of unity of purpose at community and national Horticulture, Sports (not as in the plagiaristic “cut level. and paste” manner evident in our newspapers, but At the time of writing this article, Sierra Leone had not yet been as would evince the reporters' initiatives), that they declared Ebola free, but was well on the way to seeing this rarely fall off the legal plank through the practice happen and there is no doubt that the media as a whole made a of “yellow” journalism. The greatest beneficiaries significant contribution to making this happen. are the readership and listeners who become adequately informed, educated, entertained and Dr. Julius Spencer is Chairman SLAJ Ebola Response Committee left feeling refreshed in the process. That is path the and Managing Director of Premier Media Group Limited which media in Sierra Leone must begin to tread. owns Premier News newspaper .

Winstanley Rutherford Bankole Johnson is a retired International Banker (Standard Chartered), former Mayor of the Municipality of Freetown Former Chairman, Sierra Leone Commercial Bank, former Chairman Sierra Leone Road Maintenance Fund President, Anglican (Freetown) Diocesan Lay Readers' Association, Chairman Planned Parenthood Association (Western Area) Volunteers, Life Patron for several Civic organizations. He is married with several children.

Media Reform Coordinating Group 33 State of the Media Report 2014 Community Radio Performance in Sierra Leone - 2014 From P 28 announcement made by the police on the radio that the young people of the town, should discontinue a protest that ensued after they "refused" to allow workers of the Ebola Response Centre in Kono to collect an elderly woman that was suspected of showing signs of Ebola. Soldiers put the situation under control." On whether public hearings were organised for communities to give their mandate in terms of how the Journalists from various radio stations under stations should operate, Samba IRN contribute to the regular Ebola updates Koroma, Station Manager, Radio Bontico, said, "One such meeting was been able to prevail on community Northern Region, Foday Sulaiman held in 2014 to know the programmes farmers to cultivate for the radio to Dumbuya, said there were two major the community liked and new establish a seed bank. About 50 governance challenges on community programmes they wanted to be communities in five chiefdoms broadcasting in the region. He said introduced." Radio Gbafth also held cooperated in the farming project." Radio Numbara in Tonkolili "had such hearings before 2014 at their end Only Radio Kolenten said it got problems with an action of the Board of year festival. capacity building and financial regarding the sacking of the Station Eastern Radio did not hold such support from Action Aid, CAWeC, manager, Alfred Koroma, who was hearings, "but we do host their ABC-Development, FAWE/CIC UK later reinstated." He said Radio Cart- representatives and we report to them and Paramount Chiefs in various Bamin in Madina, Tonko Limba, on our economic status while we rely areas. Kambia, also "had problems with the o n C i v i l S o c i e t y a n d t h e In order to get an external perspective governance structure of the radio, but representatives of the various interest on the performance of community SLAJ North is trying to address the groups on the Board to articulate and radio stations and the major matter." present the interests of those groups governance issues in 2014, the heads The Chairman of SLAJ, Northern for onward implementation by of the Sierra Leone Association of Region, Sammy Haffner, said the management." Journalists (SLAJ) were interviewed. stations in the region were operational However, all the stations reported that The Chairman of SLAJ, Eastern though they faced many technical the mandate given by the community Region, Bob Saffa, said the major problems. No major problems with the was renewed at regular intervals. Most issue in the Region had to do with operations of community radios in the of them also made reference to the Starline Radio, which broadcast region were reported. renewal of the Board's mandate. stories about some Members of Commenting on the activities of Eastern Radio does theirs at "biannual Parliament from Kenema district community radio stations, the General Assembly meetings" while which the latter considered National Coordinator of the Radio Kolenten's renewal is done, demeaning to their status. The Station Independent Radio Network (IRN), "…once every two years at quarterly Manager was invited to parliament Ransford Wright, said in terms of radio update programmes in which we for questioning and one hearing had performance, the major coverage of solicit public views on issues of been held on the matter so far. Aside the second half of 2014 was on the concern." Voice of the Peninsular from that, he said, all the community Ebola Virus Disease (EVD). "The "organised one public hearing in radio stations provided information community radios provided the local November 2013." None of the on Ebola issues particularly at the coverage on Ebola before the community radio stations received onset of the outbreak of the virus in Independent Radio Network (IRN) support in the form of subvention from the region. He said the community and the Sierra Leone Association of Government. radios encouraged people to ask Journalists (SLAJ), started the Do CSOs assist the community radio questions and to seek clarifications syndicated national programme on stations through capacity building, about the spread and control of the Ebola," he said. seed funding, emergency bridging disease in the early days of the finance, or advocacy? Three of the outbreak. Contd. 35 stations said no to these questions. The Acting Chairman of SLAJ, Eastern Radio also stated: "We have Media Reform Coordinating Group 34 State of the Media Report 2014 Community Radio Performance in Sierra Leone - 2014 strategies to achieve its goals, an organisational structure with clear responsibilities and managers having the necessary skills.) "Adequate 'Infrastructure and Finance (there is a budget, finance policy and procedures that guide their financial conduct; the station's transmission facilities deliver a clear signal to the target audiences, financial records are maintained, and there are regular financial reports and an annual The strength of community radios, he communities, some of the stations audit.) added, is that they provide local were, on several occasions, 'off air', " Programming (they are generally information; however, they are usually invariably because of lack of power of good technical quality; stations unable to address national issues affecting supply and/or malfunctioning have editorial policies which are them locally owing to the lack of the generators. Technical problems adhered to, and a news team with required personnel, research and r a n g e f r o m t r a n s m i t t e r s enough skills to gather local news, production skills. malfunctioning, computers etc.) The IRN Coordinator expressed crashing, to mixing console and " C o m m u n i t y i n v o l v e m e n t satisfaction that the overall performance of microphones, simply failing to (communities participating in the community radios was gradually function properly. AGMs of the station, a system in improving in the area of broadcasting that All the stations suffer from place to allow communities to give is, "being on air". "There is still room for inadequate financial and technical feedback to the station on improvement in the area of production and support, a high turnover of trained programmes and the existence of availability of trained personnel. As soon as and experienced production staff listeners associations or similar members of staff at community radio and a dearth of qualified broadcast entities, etc.). stations are trained, they leave the stations engineers and technicians. In According to Healthy Community for better jobs," the National Coordinator a d d i t i o n , a p p r o p r i a t e Radio Station,2013: "Wealthy observed. accountability and transparency sectors of the society have many In spite of the difficulties they face, mechanisms in most community media choices but community Ransford Wright is of the view that radios are still a major challenge. stations often represent the only "Community radios are able to provide the They also have a long way to go in space where poorer communities platform to address community issues." honing finance and marketing can discuss the issues that affect In the area of technical support, community skills. them." In other words, the guiding radios suffered a major blow in 2014 when With specific reference to the philosophy of community radios in Gassimu Kelfala, commonly known as Healthy Community Radio Station, Sierra Leone should be access and 'Gaspi', a broadcast technician, died in a 2013, the paper suggests the participation - these are crucial to road accident along the Bo Highway. Until following as the way forward for their operations and assessment. his death, 'Gaspi' was a roving technician effective and efficient operation of who helped repair transmitters and other community radios in Sierra Leone. Francis Sowa is a journalist, lecturer equipment in community radios across the "A critical look at the 'Mission and a n d C o m m i s s i o n e r a t t h e country. Governance' of the stations (the Independent Media Commission The stories narrated above are symptomatic s t a t i o n s s h o u l d h a v e a (IMC). He holds a Master of of what obtains in community radios Philosophy, Master of Arts and comprehensive constitution that Bachelor of Arts with Honours in around the country. However, from a guides their operations, and a Mass Communication from Fourah holistic perspective, almost all the clearly expressed mission of Bay College, University of Sierra community radios performed their community service, etc.) Leone. He is also a researcher, writer, expected task of providing news and "Proper 'Management and Staff' columnist, and social and political information to their respective (each station should have a long analyst. He is married with two communities. term development strategy with children. In the process of performing their main objectives, measurable goals and function of providing a platform for local Media Reform Coordinating Group 35 Contact: MRCG 7 Small Waterloo Street Freetown, Sierra Leone West Africa

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