The Government has welcomed the launch of a nationwide Free Call-In Service for radio stations by Africell, describing the initiative as a timely investment in democratic participation, public dialogue, and national connectivity.
Delivering the keynote address at the official launch ceremony held at Africell’s Wilberforce office to mark World Radio Day, the Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, praised the telecommunications provider for expanding citizens’ access to platforms for expression and engagement.
Minister Bah underscored the enduring importance of radio as Sierra Leone’s most far-reaching medium, capable of connecting urban centres with hard-to-reach communities. He noted that radio remains indispensable for inclusive communication, reaching listeners from inland chiefdoms to coastal and island communities such as Bonthe Island. “Radio reaches everyone—right down to the last person,” he said, emphasizing its unmatched national footprint.
He explained that the new service bridges a long-standing gap by integrating radio broadcasting with mobile technology, allowing listeners not only to receive information but to actively contribute to public discussions. “For years, radio audiences consumed information without the opportunity to talk back. Meaningful public communication happens when there is conversation, and this initiative finally makes that possible,” the Minister observed.
According to him, the free call-in platform removes a major barrier faced by radio stations—limited airtime credit—thereby enhancing interaction among broadcasters, public officials, and citizens. He described the initiative as a practical contribution to democratic governance, noting that access to communication tools is central to citizen participation. “Democracy weakens when people are unable to speak. Today, Africell has handed the microphone to ordinary Sierra Leoneans,” he said, adding that the move aligns with the civic engagement agenda of Julius Maada Bio.
As the country approaches an electioneering period, Minister Bah urged media practitioners and callers alike to use the platform responsibly. He called for respectful debate, tolerance, and ethical broadcasting, cautioning against insults and abusive language. “We can disagree without being disagreeable. With access comes responsibility,” he stressed.
He further noted that the initiative complements ongoing efforts by the Independent Media Commission to improve call screening and promote decency on the airwaves, particularly given that radio audiences include families and children.
Addressing concerns about press freedom, the Minister rejected claims that the media space is shrinking. He said Sierra Leone currently enjoys its most liberal media environment to date, citing the proliferation of radio and television stations, newspapers, bloggers, and online platforms. He urged media professionals to help lower political tensions by promoting fair, balanced debate that strengthens national unity.
The event concluded with the formal activation of the Africell Free Call-In Service for radio stations nationwide. On behalf of the Government and people of Sierra Leone, Minister Bah thanked Africell for its continued support to the media sector and its role in expanding public participation across the country.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Monday, 23rd February 2026 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
