Marking a historic leadership stride, Mrs. Lolo Yeama Sarah Thompson-Oguamah, SLENA’s first female Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief, visited the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and the Parliament of Sierra Leon This strategic outreach aimed to strengthen SLENA’s capacity, support new correspondents, and position the agency at the forefront of reliable news reporting for both national and international audiences.
Mrs. Thompson-Oguamah’s dynamic leadership has brought a fresh vision to SLENA. Her visit underscored SLENA’s commitment to the principles of the Kampala Declaration and Africa’s independence in the media, advocating for Sierra Leone’s voice on the global stage. She engaged newly recruited staff, including Mr Amara Kargbo, emphasising the role of correspondents in delivering timely and credible news from critical governmental and non-governmental institutions.
In recent weeks, SLENA has launched its official website and social media platforms, expanding its reach and forming partnerships with global agencies. Notably, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation has shown interest in collaborating with SLENA to translate news into multiple languages, including French, Arabic, Spanish, and Italian, thus increasing accessibility and broadening the agency’s global presence.
Mrs Thompson-Oguamah highlighted the need for correspondents to be equipped with essential tools—such as laptops and cameras—to meet the demands of modern journalism, where visual content and concise reporting are increasingly in demand. The recent addition of a video platform on SLENA’s website caters to a visually oriented audience and reflects the agency’s commitment to digital innovation.
In discussions with Mr Emmanuel Sandi, Deputy Finance Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mrs Thompson-Oguamah explored frameworks to support correspondents like Mr Kargbo. Mr Sandi praised SLENA’s leadership and affirmed the government’s dedication to transparency and robust internal communications. Recognising the demands on SLENA’s correspondents, he assured Mrs. Thompson-Oguamah of his advocacy for increased resources to strengthen their capacity.
During her visit to the Parliament of Sierra Leone, Mrs Thompson-Oguamah engaged Correspondent Hassan Bangura and Deputy Clerk Gilbert Bosco Nhabay to enhance collaboration. Mr. Nhabay commended SLENA’s commitment to accurate reporting, stressing the importance of transparency and teamwork. He attributed strengthened parliamentary communications to SLENA’s diligence and professionalism, emphasising the positive impact on public engagement.
Mrs. Thompson-Oguamah’s leadership as the first female Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief has brought renewed energy and vision to SLENA. Her role paves the way for more inclusive and impactful media in Sierra Leone, focusing on empowering correspondents and bridging communications across institutions.
Amara Kargbo, SLENA Correspondent
Email: kargboamara079@gmail.com
Tel: +232 73111507
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