Freetown, 2nd March 2026 – The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) and the Independent Media Commission (IMC) have jointly launched the maiden edition of the SLAJ/IMC National Media Awards 2025/26, a landmark event designed to celebrate excellence in journalism and media practice across the country.
The awards, which will be held on 13th June 2026 at UNIMAK Hall in Makeni, aim to recognize outstanding contributions in print, radio, television, and online journalism. Organizers say the initiative underscores their commitment to media self-regulation, professionalism, and ethical reporting, while highlighting the transformative role of journalism in national development.
“This is about celebrating the invaluable role of journalists in shaping society and strengthening democracy,” SLAJ and IMC noted in a joint statement.
Ten categories will be awarded, including: Sam Metzger Award for Best Political Reporting, Outstanding Reporting on Gender Issues, Economic Reporting, Court Reporting, Health Reporting, Reporting on Arts, Culture, and Tourism, Sports Reporting, Reporting on the Environment, Reporting on Human Rights and the Olu Awoonor Gordon Award for Best Investigative Reporting
The awards are expected to become an annual fixture, serving as a catalyst for raising standards in Sierra Leone’s media landscape and inspiring journalists to continue delivering impactful stories.
