Sierra Leonean journalist Bai Bai Sesay has been honoured at the Scholar Africa Media Awards during the 2nd Annual Scholar Media Africa Conference in Nairobi, Kenya.
Sesay, Managing Editor of the Independent Observer newspaper, received the award on Friday in recognition of his contribution to journalism and media development.
The award was presented by renowned Kenyan lawyer and academic Prof. Dr PLO Lumumba, who was the Special Guest Speaker at the conference and awards ceremony.
Speaking after receiving the award, Sesay said he was grateful for the recognition.
“I am deeply humbled and incredibly happy to receive this recognition,” he said. “It is a great honour to receive such a wonderful award from a continental icon like Prof. Lumumba.”
Sesay dedicated the award to journalists and media workers in Sierra Leone, particularly the staff of the Independent Observer newspaper.
“I dedicate this award to the entire media fraternity in Sierra Leone. This belongs to the hardworking staff of the Independent Observer newspaper,” he said.
“Your commitment, sacrifice and belief in truth-telling made this possible. I share this moment with every reporter, editor and media worker back home who continues to serve the people with integrity.”
He said the recognition was not only a personal achievement, but also an important moment for Sierra Leone’s media industry.
“This is not just about me. It is about Sierra Leone. It is about showing that our journalists can compete and be celebrated on the continental stage,” Sesay said.
The 2nd Annual Scholar Media Africa Conference and SMEGAfrica Excellence Awards 2026 was held from 5 to 7 August at the Safari Park Hotel in Nairobi.
The event brought together academics, university leaders, policymakers, researchers, journalists, entrepreneurs, diplomats, development partners and youth leaders from Africa and other parts of the world.
Discussions focused on issues including education, research, leadership, governance, media, entrepreneurship, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, youth empowerment and sustainable development.
The conference also hosted the SMEGAfrica Excellence Awards Gala Dinner, where individuals and institutions were recognised for their work in education, research, leadership, media, entrepreneurship, health and community development.
Prof. Lumumba delivered the keynote address at the awards ceremony and presented honours to some of the award recipients.
Sesay’s recognition adds to the growing number of Sierra Leonean media professionals receiving recognition beyond the country for their work in journalism.
