The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), Eastern Region, has received what its leadership has described as the largest individual donation since the establishment of the association in Kenema, following a generous contribution of office equipment from philanthropist Vandison Vandi Mansaray.
The donation, aimed at improving the association’s working environment and strengthening its operational capacity, includes an air-conditioning unit, an LG 60-inch plasma television, a freezer, office chairs and a DStv decoder with subscription.
Speaking during the presentation ceremony, SLAJ Eastern Region Chairman, Philip Koroma, described the contribution as the biggest and most significant individual donation the association had received since its establishment in Kenema. He expressed appreciation to Mansaray for recognising the needs of journalists and supporting the development of the media in the region.
In her remarks, Madam Victoria Bernardetteh commended Mansaray for his commitment to youth development and philanthropy, noting that he had previously supported schools through scholarships and extended assistance to less privileged individuals.
She observed that his decision to support the media was particularly significant, describing him as the first philanthropist to extend such consideration to the association. She also appealed to him to pay special attention to female journalists, stressing the importance of equipping media practitioners to strengthen their engagement with communities. She further encouraged more women to become members of SLAJ.
Senior journalist Jamiru Fatorma also praised Mansaray’s philanthropic contributions, explaining that he became familiar with the donor through his generosity and development initiatives across the media and other sectors.
Fatorma acknowledged the contributions of the Mayor of Kenema and Mr. Brima Swarray towards supporting the association over the years, expressing appreciation that Mansaray had now joined efforts to strengthen the media.
He emphasised that SLAJ welcomes people from all ages, backgrounds and social classes who are committed to development, describing Mansaray as an important contributor to the growth of Kenema.
The SLPP District Chairman, in his remarks, acknowledged the important role journalists play in Sierra Leone’s political and governance processes, noting that although journalists are not politicians, their work significantly influences the country’s political landscape.
He described journalism as a challenging profession and stressed that the media remains an important part of the governance system.
He explained that Mansaray’s donation followed his advice that the association needed office equipment to furnish its new secretariat. He added that while anyone could make a donation, fulfilling a promise demonstrated genuine leadership and commitment.
The district chairman also commended the outgoing SLAJ executive for constructing the association’s office building and encouraged the current leadership and membership to continue contributing to the development of journalism in the region.
In his remarks, donor Vandison Vandi Mansaray explained that the donation was not initially planned but came about after the President of SLAJ contacted him a few weeks earlier to explain that although the association had secured a new building, it lacked essential office furniture and equipment.
Following further discussions and advice from Commander Snow, Mansaray said he decided to purchase the items needed to improve the Secretariat’s working environment.
He described the contribution as an expression of his commitment to supporting young people and development initiatives, stressing that he was proud of his roots in Kenema and considered it an honour to support journalists in the region.
Mansaray clarified that he was not currently a politician but remained passionate about helping young people and supporting initiatives that contribute to community development.
He assured the association that the donation was only the beginning, promising that more support would follow. He also expressed satisfaction with SLAJ’s work and pledged his willingness to assist whenever the need arises.
The donation is expected to improve the working conditions at the SLAJ Eastern Region Secretariat and strengthen the association’s ability to carry out its activities, engage communities and promote professional journalism across the region.
