Journalist Theophilus Sahr Gbenda has officially declared his intention to run for the position of Assistant Secretary General in the upcoming elections of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ).
With a journalism career spanning three decades, Theophilus Sahr Gbenda brings a wealth of experience in both print and electronic media. His motivation for seeking this office is to support the Secretary General in managing SLAJ’s National Office while contributing to the growth and professionalism of journalism in Sierra Leone.
“I am committed to providing the necessary support to ensure the smooth administration of SLAJ and to advancing positive journalism in our country,” Gbenda stated in his declaration.
A Legacy of Dedication and Leadership
Theophilus Sahr Gbenda’s career began during his school days, and he has since held numerous influential positions in the media industry. His past roles include:
Reporter at For Di People Newspaper
Senior Reporter at Standard Times Newspaper
Deputy Editor at Awareness Times Newspaper
Editor at Weekend Spark Newspaper
Editor-in-Chief at Positive Change Newspaper and Umoja Wa Afrika Newspaper
Station Manager and presenter of Burning Issues at Culture Radio
Managing Editor at Skekpendeh Newspaper
General Manager and presenter of Monologue at Eagle Radio, succeeding Dr. David Tam Baryoh
Contributions Beyond the Newsroom
Beyond traditional journalism, Gbenda has played a pivotal role in media development and advocacy. He was a founding member and Secretary General of the Reporters Union Sierra Leone and served on the SLAJ Membership Committee under the leadership of Kelvin Lewis.
Currently, he serves as the Chairman of the Association of Journalists on Mining and Extractives (AJME) and the Executive Director of Community Media Network Sierra Leone (CoMNet-SL), a coalition of 50 community radio stations across the country.
His contributions to journalism have earned him recognition, including being named Journalist of the Year 2018 by Diaspora Focus.
A Call for Support
Gbenda is calling on fellow journalists and SLAJ members to support his candidacy, promising dedication, professionalism, and leadership in the role.
With his extensive experience and deep-rooted commitment to journalism, Gbenda is poised to be a strong contender for the position of Assistant Secretary General.
The SLAJ elections are expected to be keenly contested, with candidates vying to shape
the future of journalism in Sierra Leone.
