By Sulaiman Jalloh
During the State Opening of the Third Session of the Sixth Parliament of the Second Republic of Sierra Leone, His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio praised the crucial role played by the country’s media and civil society in strengthening democratic governance.
Addressing Members of Parliament on Thursday, August 7, 2025, President Bio described Sierra Leone’s press as “vibrant and independent,” commending journalists and civil society actors alike for amplifying citizens’ voices and promoting transparency. He reiterated his government’s steadfast commitment to open dialogue, civic participation, and press freedom. “My Government remains committed to engaging with those who amplify citizens’ voices, promote transparency, and strengthen democratic governance,” the President declared.
Highlighting government efforts through the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, President Bio pointed to the National Civic Education and Engagement Initiative as a significant step toward inclusive governance. This initiative includes weekly press briefings in Krio, nationwide civic events, an annual civic festival, and Presidential Town Hall Meetings.
These platforms, the Head of State explained, are designed to foster timely, transparent, and accessible communication between the government and the citizenry.
On the subject of press freedom, President Bio noted Sierra Leone’s remarkable international progress. The country has climbed nine places on the Global Press Freedom Index and now scores 91% on the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Freedom of Information indicator. “These achievements are clear evidence of our dedication to open governance and a free, independent media,” he emphasized.
Looking ahead, the President announced a series of ambitious reforms and initiatives, including the digital transformation of TV broadcasting and the revitalization of the Government Printing Press in partnership with Paper Evo of Canada.
He also introduced the new Inclusive National Civic Education Agenda, which aims to promote national values and civic responsibility in key areas such as Feed Salone, climate action, digital literacy, and public health. Plans are underway to introduce legislation focused on data protection, records management modernization, and alignment of public information systems with global standards.
In the creative sector, President Bio revealed that a National Film Policy will soon be finalized, aimed at revitalizing Sierra Leone’s cultural and creative industries. Additionally, a Youth in Entrepreneurship Initiative will be launched, targeting digital innovation, climate awareness, and employment creation.
The President concluded his statement by reaffirming his administration’s commitment to national development through inclusive governance and citizen empowerment, encapsulated in the slogan:
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Monday,8th August 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
