By Usman Fambuleh
Orange Sierra Leone on Friday, 6 February 2026, held its Annual Media Engagement at the Orange Digital Center in Hill Station, bringing together journalists, editors, and media proprietors from across the country.
The engagement focused on strengthening the company’s relationship with the media, with an emphasis on capacity building and digital empowerment, moving beyond traditional publicity-driven partnerships.
Speaking at the event, media proprietor and strategic media partner, Alhaji Dauda Bangura, owner of The Owl Newspaper, said the relationship between Orange Sierra Leone and the media has evolved into a high-impact partnership centred on professional development.
He noted that the collaboration now prioritises capacity advancement, enabling journalists to adapt to the rapidly changing digital media landscape. He described Orange Sierra Leone as a corporate institution that recognises the importance of a skilled, informed, and responsible media in national development.
Mr. Bangura further explained that the partnership bridges the gap between corporate communication objectives and journalistic excellence, creating mutual benefits for both the company and the media community.
Highlighting a key outcome of the partnership, he disclosed that Orange Sierra Leone launched a free Coursera digital training programme in January 2026 for journalists nationwide. According to him, the initiative provides access to global online courses and equips journalists with modern digital tools to improve reporting standards and content production in the digital age.
The Chief Executive Officer of Orange Sierra Leone, Madam Aïcha Touré, outlined her strategic priorities for the company, including improving network reliability and customer experience, while advancing digital inclusion across Sierra Leone.
She said the company would continue to invest in network infrastructure, data services, and international connectivity to support businesses, institutions, and individuals. She added that cybersecurity, data protection, regulatory compliance, and social impact initiatives remain central to Orange Sierra Leone’s operational strategy.
Madam Touré also emphasised the importance of listening to customers and maintaining transparent and constructive engagement, noting that digital technology must translate into tangible opportunities in education, entrepreneurship, financial inclusion, and public service delivery.
The Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, who served as the keynote speaker, commended Orange Sierra Leone for its sustained partnership with the government and the media. He said the telecommunications sector plays a critical role in connecting remote communities, enabling economic activity, and promoting inclusive development.
He added that a strong, responsible, and professional media remains essential for public awareness, democratic governance, and social cohesion.
The President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), Alhaji Manika Kamara, also praised Orange Sierra Leone for its continued support to journalists across the country.
He said the company has contributed significantly to the professional growth of media practitioners through career development programmes, scholarships, and support to the Journalism Welfare Fund. According to him, these initiatives have helped journalists enhance their skills, pursue further education, and remain motivated in the profession.
Mr. Kamara noted that the Journalism Welfare Fund has played a crucial role in assisting journalists during difficult periods, particularly in cases of health challenges and emergencies, thereby promoting the welfare and dignity of media practitioners.
He added that Orange Sierra Leone’s commitment extends beyond corporate branding and reflects a genuine partnership aimed at building a strong, ethical, and sustainable media industry capable of serving the public interest and promoting accountability.
The Annual Media Engagement provided a platform for discussions on collaboration, innovation, and the future of journalism in Sierra Leone’s evolving digital landscape.
Participants at the event said such initiatives not only strengthen the Orange brand but also contribute to building a digitally literate, informed, and resilient society. The event concluded with presentations highlighting Orange Sierra Leone’s achievements and success stories for the year 2025.
