Freetown, 7th November 2025 – Sierra Leone’s Cabinet has officially approved the National Film Policy 2025, ushering in a transformative era for the country’s creative and cultural industries. The policy, spearheaded by Minister of Information and Civic Education Chernor Bah, lays the foundation for a professional, regulated, and investment-ready film sector, marking the first comprehensive framework of its kind in the nation’s history.

“This is a new dawn for Sierra Leone’s film industry,” Minister Bah declared following Cabinet’s endorsement. “President Bio has given clear direction to move boldly forward, and with Cabinet’s authority, we are ready to turn decades of dreams into action, building a vibrant film industry that powers jobs, civic pride, and progress.”

What the Policy Delivers- The National Film Policy 2025 positions film as a strategic driver of job creation, national identity, and economic growth. Key provisions include:

  • A legal and institutional framework under the Independent Media Commission (IMC) to regulate and coordinate film production.
  • A National Film Fund to support local productions, training programs, and film festivals.
  • Tax incentives and rebates to attract both domestic and international investment.
  • A streamlined Single-Window Permit System for film approvals.
  • Ambitious plans for a Film City, regional training institutes, and mobile cinemas to expand access nationwide.

New Structures to Support Implementation- To ensure effective rollout, the policy establishes several institutions:

  • The IMC Film and Video Censorship Directorate to oversee classification, licensing, and compliance.
  • The National Council for Movie Makers – Sierra Leone (NCMMSL) to unify filmmakers, guilds, and unions.
  • The Sierra Leone Institute of Film and Media Studies for professional training and certification.
  • A National Film Archive to preserve the country’s audiovisual heritage.

The policy is expected to unlock thousands of jobs in the creative economy, boost Sierra Leone’s visibility as a regional film destination, and enhance participation in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) for audiovisual content.

“This policy isn’t just about film, it’s about identity, opportunity, and inclusion,” said Minister Bah. “We’re creating space for young creatives, promoting gender equity, and exporting Sierra Leonean stories to the world.”

The Ministry of Information and Civic Education will now collaborate with other government departments, development partners, private sector stakeholders, and the film community to implement the policy.