The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) Eastern Region, based in Kenema, has received a significant donation from philanthropist Vandison Mansaray to equip its newly constructed regional office. The donation includes an air conditioner, DStv with subscription, a freezer, an LG 60-inch television, and office chairs. This contribution is expected to improve the working environment and operational capacity of journalists in the Eastern Region. The presentation ceremony was attended by various stakeholders, including SLAJ members and local officials.
Speaking at the presentation ceremony, SLAJ Eastern Region Chairman, Philip Koroma, expressed his gratitude to Mansaray for the generous donation. He described it as the largest and most significant individual donation the association has received since its establishment in Kenema. Koroma emphasized the importance of the donation in enhancing the working conditions of journalists in the region. The association has been working to strengthen its presence in the region, and this donation is seen as a major boost.
Madam Victoria Bernardetteh commended Mansaray for his philanthropic activities, which have extended to the media sector. She noted that Mansaray had previously supported schools through scholarships and assistance to underprivileged people. Bernardetteh urged him to pay particular attention to female journalists and encouraged more women to become members of SLAJ. She stressed that better-equipped media practitioners would be able to strengthen their engagement with communities.
Senior journalist Jamiru Fatorma praised Mansaray's intervention, describing his philanthropic activities across different sectors as impressive. He welcomed the support, noting that individuals committed to development, regardless of their background, are welcome to contribute to SLAJ's growth. Fatorma emphasized the importance of collaboration between the media and the community, and how Mansaray's donation would facilitate this.
The SLPP District Chairman acknowledged the important role journalists play in Sierra Leone's political and governance processes, despite not being politicians themselves. He disclosed that Mansaray's donation followed his advice that the association needed office equipment after acquiring its new building. The Chairman commended the outgoing SLAJ executive for constructing the regional office and urged the new leadership to sustain the association's work.
Explaining the motivation behind the donation, Mansaray said the intervention was not initially planned but followed an appeal from the SLAJ President, who informed him that the association had secured a new building but lacked essential office furniture and equipment. He said he decided to support the association after receiving further advice from Commander Snow. Mansaray emphasized his desire to support young people and contribute to the development of Kenema.
Mansaray, who described himself as a proud son of Kenema, assured SLAJ members that the donation was only the beginning, promising further support whenever the need arises. He expressed satisfaction with the association's work and reaffirmed his willingness to continue supporting the media. The donation is seen as a significant boost to the association's efforts to enhance its presence and operations in the region.
Key points
- The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) Eastern Region has received its largest individual donation since its establishment from philanthropist Vandison Mansaray.
- The donation includes essential office equipment such as an air conditioner, DStv with subscription, a freezer, an LG 60-inch television, and office chairs.
- Mansaray's donation is expected to improve the working environment and operational capacity of journalists in the Eastern Region.
