The President of the Sport Writers Association of Sierra Leone Sahr Morris Jr in his state of the association 2025-2026 report reflected on the gains, successes, failures, and challenges, and how to chart the way forward to strengthen and develop the Association.
He said “Today, as we gather to deliberate on the future of our noble profession, especially the challenges we face in this digital age – and to give an account of my administration’s stewardship, let me begin by addressing this august body: We must each search our hearts and consciences and ask ourselves: Have I served SWASAL faithfully? Have I performed my duties as a member or executive to the best of my ability for the growth and development of our Association? Let our consciences answer. At our last congress, we thanked God that we did not observe a minute of silence for any fallen member. Sadly, today, we must do so. I kindly ask that we stand and observe a moment of silent prayer – not only in remembrance but also in seeking God’s forgiveness for our departed colleagues: Samuel Brima Mattia, who was brutally murdered at VOPAD Radio 96.5 FM in Waterloo; our former Vice President, Austin Allan Thomas, who passed away in the United Kingdom; and our brother Emmanuel Kobba, whose passing shocked the broadcasting community. May their souls rest in perfect peace.
THE MATTIA CASE
Following the tragic death of Samuel Brima Mattia, the Association responded swiftly, expressing outrage at the shocking circumstances surrounding his death on January 16, 2025. We issued an official statement highlighting that this incident poses a serious threat to press freedom and underscores the dangerous conditions journalists face. In collaboration with the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), we called for an urgent police investigation and encouraged members to amplify the call for justice using the hashtag #JusticeForMattia. We continue to follow up on the case alongside SLAJ and keep members informed. I extend sincere appreciation to all who have supported this effort, including Umaru Fofana and Isaac Massaquoi.
TRIENNIAL ELECTIVE CONGRESS
Our Triennial Elective Congress in Makeni was both competitive and a true test of our unity and resilience against external pressures. We stood firm as SWASAL, and the outcome reflected our collective strength. I extend appreciation to Ishmael Saidu Kanu, now Assistant General Secretary of the Sierra Leone Football Association, for the spirited contest. To the newly elected executives, you now understand that leadership in this Association is more demanding than it may appear. We concluded the congress with an awards ceremony honoring veteran sports journalists, dedicated members, institutions, and individuals who have contributed significantly to the growth of
SWASAL. CAPACITY BUILDING
Our partnership with the Department of Human Kinetics and Sports at Fourah Bay College, University of Sierra Leone, began successfully with a short certificate course in Sports Administration. This initiative brought together journalists, editors, and students to enhance skills in sports reporting, ethics, communication, and management. We will soon commence another two-week course on Sports Law for Journalists. I urge members to complete their registration by paying the required fee before the extended deadline of May 2, 2026.
Additionally, we are in advanced discussions with Every Nation College in Bo to introduce a Diploma in Sports Journalism. Meanwhile, we regret that the planned diploma program at LICCSAL Business College did not commence due to low enrolment.
We are also expecting further training opportunities in collaboration with the Sierra Leone Canoe Association and the National Olympic Committee, pending funding.
MEMBERS’ WELFARE
In March 2025, we strongly condemned the violent attack on our colleague Alusine Rehme Wilson during a Premier League match in Makeni. Following initial challenges with the Premier League Board (PLB), we took decisive action, including a news blackout. After sustained engagement, a joint investigative committee was formed, comprising SWASAL, PLB, and SLAJ.
The committee’s findings identified serious gaps in match-day security and recommended improved safety measures, better communication, and clear protocols for media access. We also addressed other incidents involving members, including a reported assault in the Northern Region, which was successfully resolved. In October 2025, we engaged members in the Eastern Region (Kenema), helping to restore unity and pave the way for leadership restructuring.
OTHER ACTIVITIES
In February 2026, SWASAL made a stylish return to the continental stage. For the first time in the history of sports journalism in Sierra Leone, the SWASAL President successfully facilitated the participation of the President of the National Olympic Committee of Sierra Leone (NOC–SLE), Prince Vandy Sually, and the Director of Sports, Arun Korjie, at the 8th edition of the International Sports Press Association (AIPS) Africa Congress held in Banjul, The Gambia, from 6–9 February 2026. Let me use this opportunity to express sincere appreciation to the Minister of Sports, Madam Augusta James-Teima, and the NOC-SLE President for their unwavering support.
I am also pleased to inform you that SWASAL has fulfilled its membership obligations to AIPS Africa and is now among the five fully paid-up member associations on the continent. Earlier in 2025, the Executive engaged the leadership of the National Olympic Committee/Commonwealth Games Association of Sierra Leone (NOC/CGA-SLE) to strengthen partnership and collaboration. Discussions focused on the development of sports and the critical role of cooperation between our institutions. We are optimistic that by 2026, these engagements will yield high-level training opportunities for sports journalists. A similar engagement was also held with the Ministry of Sports. Our Executive also hosted the “Wan SLAJ” Print vs Electronic football match—a one-day event aimed at fostering unity, camaraderie, and sportsmanship among members of the media community during the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) Elective Congress. The presence of both presidential candidates added to the spirit of leadership and togetherness that the event symbolized. In May 2025, we announced the formation of four strategic committees to strengthen the Association’s governance, discipline, recognition, and editorial output. Demonstrating our commitment to reform and accountability, the Executive established the following committees: • Constitutional Review Committee Chaired by former SWASAL Vice President and legal practitioner, Mohamed L. Bah Esq, with Mohamed Fajah Barrie serving as Vice Chairman. The committee is tasked with reviewing key provisions of the SWASAL Constitution to ensure alignment with international standards, particularly those of AIPS. Other members include Alhassan Idris Bangura, Emmanuel Y. Samura (North), Kalilu B. Mansaray (East), and Ishmael Saidu Kanu. • Disciplinary Committee Chaired by veteran sports journalist and current Permanent Secretary, Kwame Yankson, with Sorie Ibrahim Sesay as Vice Chairman.
The committee is responsible for upholding SWASAL’s Code of Ethics and handling disciplinary matters. Members include Donald Theo Harding, Mohamed Gassama (South), Adams L. Koroma (North), Desmond Kallon (East), and Francess Bernard. • Awards Committee Led by experienced journalist and entertainer Abu Bakarr Kanu, this committee oversees the recognition and celebration of excellence in sports journalism. Members include Moses A. Kargbo, Alhaji K. Tarawallie, David Madi, Esther Pearce, Mohamed Abu Conteh, Mohamed Bashkay Sheriff, and Bernard Turay. • Editorial Board Headed by respected editor Sayoh Kamara, the board plays a key role in shaping SWASAL’s public communication and media output. Members include Moses A. Kargbo, Bernard Turay, Emmanuel Thorli, Alie Bittar, Alusine Rehme Wilson, Paul Kamara, and Barrie Alpha. These appointments reflect the Executive’s determination to reposition SWASAL as a strong, credible, and leading voice in sports journalism both in Sierra Leone and beyond. Additionally, during the year, we collaborated with SLAJ to participate in both the Bar Association Gala and the Lawyers’ Society competition.
CHALLENGES
Despite our progress, we face several challenges: 1. we were unable to attend the AIPS Global Congress in Switzerland due to visa constraints. 2. Low membership dues payment continues to affect the Association’s operations. 3. Limited contributions to the SWASAL website remain a concern. 4. Securing sponsorship remains difficult due to prevailing economic conditions and other external factors.
CONCLUSION
As we move forward, let us remain committed, united, and focused on advancing sports journalism in Sierra Leone. The strength of this Association lies in our collective responsibility, discipline, and dedication. Together, we can overcome our challenges and build a stronger, more vibrant SWASAL.