The Executive Secretary of the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC), Hawa Sally Samai, has paid tribute to journalists who reported during Sierra Leone’s civil war, saying their work helped protect lives and preserve hope at the darkest moments of the conflict.
In a tribute delivered this week, Samai recalled how journalists became lifelines during the country’s eleven-year war, providing critical information that helped families and communities make decisions to stay safe.
She highlighted radio broadcasts on 98.1 FM by Hannah Fullah and Spencer, which guided listeners on warning signs and safety measures. She also praised international reporting by Lansana Fofana and Umaru Fofana on the BBC, and Kevin Lewis on VOA, saying their coverage told the world the truth about what Sierra Leoneans were facing.
Samai said many citizens listened in silence, clinging to every update, aware that information shared at home and in communities could mean survival. She noted that journalists warned of signs of national distress, including the flight of spiritual leaders such as Mamie Dumbuya, while still offering courage through truthful reporting.
She also honoured journalists who lost their lives in the line of duty, describing their sacrifices as central to the country’s resilience and eventual return to peace.
“Journalism is not only about reporting,” Samai said. “It is about protecting life, preserving truth and building peace.”
She added that Sierra Leone owes part of its stability to the courage of journalists who carried the voice of the people through the most difficult chapter of the nation’s history, urging today’s media to guard the peace and uphold the promise of “never again.”
