By Richmond B. Tholley
The Sierra Leone Reporters Union (SLRU) has marked a significant milestone in its history with the successful conclusion of its first Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Makeni, Northern Sierra Leone.
The two-day event, held on November 22nd and 23rd, 2025, brought together members from across the country for a vibrant celebration of unity, professional growth, and community connection.
The AGM was a departure from tradition, with a unique blend of governance reforms, professional discussions, and unexpected sports activities. The event saw the adoption of a new constitution, which is expected to strengthen the Union’s voice, improve welfare platforms, and enhance accountability.
In her address, SLRU President Yeanor Esther Kabia described the adoption of the new constitution as a major turning point for the organisation, marking a revival of identity, responsibility, and ambition. She emphasised that the reforms are part of a larger transformation aimed at giving reporters a stronger institutional voice.
Guest speaker Kelvin Xander Lewis, former president of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), urged reporters to recommit themselves to the ethics of journalism, including truth-telling, independence, fairness, and courage. He stressed that reforms are effective only when matched with personal integrity and collective responsibility.
The AGM also featured a unique sports day, where reporters traded their notebooks and microphones for footballs and track events. The activities helped bridge gaps between members, fostered a sense of collective identity, and provided a much-needed break from the emotional demands of daily reporting.
The event was a resounding success, with delegates leaving Makeni with a renewed sense of ownership and optimism. The SLRU has signalled its intention to operate in a more inclusive, engaging, and member-focused way, prioritising the well-being of its members and advocating for improved safety, fair compensation, and professional development.
The Makeni gathering has revived a union long considered dormant and reaffirmed that the future of journalism in Sierra Leone can be shaped by unity, creativity, and collective determination.
