By Mahamood Fofana
The Sports Writers Association of Sierra Leone has outlined steady gains in training, international engagement, and institutional development, even as it grapples with financial and operational constraints.
Speaking at the association’s Annual General Meeting in Bo on April 25, 2026, SWASAL President Sahr Moris Junior said recent partnerships are beginning to strengthen the capacity of sports journalists across the country.
He pointed to collaboration with the Department of Human Kinetics and Sports at Fourah Bay College as a key milestone, noting that a certificate programme in Sports Administration has already trained journalists, editors, and students in reporting, ethics, communication, and management.
According to Moris, the association is preparing to launch a short course in Sports Law for Journalists, while discussions are ongoing with Every Nation College to introduce a diploma programme in sports journalism. However, he acknowledged a setback after a similar initiative with LICCSAL Business College failed to take off due to low enrolment.
Additional training opportunities are also being explored through partnerships with the Sierra Leone Canoe Association and the National Olympic Committee of Sierra Leone, though these remain dependent on funding.
On the international stage, Moris described February 2026 as a turning point for the association, citing his participation in the 8th AIPS Africa Congress in Banjul. He said the engagement re-established Sierra Leone’s presence within continental sports journalism structures.
He further revealed that SWASAL is now among a small group of fully compliant members of AIPS Africa, having met all its financial obligations.
Domestically, the association has pursued initiatives to strengthen unity and internal systems, including organising a “Wan SLAJ” football match between print and electronic media practitioners, and setting up four committees to improve governance and operations.
Despite these advances, Moris highlighted persistent challenges. These include visa difficulties that prevented participation in the AIPS Global Congress in Switzerland, low membership dues compliance, limited contributions to the association’s digital platforms, and ongoing struggles to secure sponsorship amid economic pressures.
He concluded that while obstacles remain, SWASAL’s recent progress signals a sustained effort to professionalise sports journalism and expand opportunities for its members.
