By Mackie M. Jalloh
The Sierra Leone Broadcasters’ Association (SiLBA) has expressed deep concern following the destruction by fire of a third radio station in the North-West Region within six weeks.
In a press release issued from its headquarters at 48 Jenner Wright Road, Upgun, Freetown, SiLBA confirmed that Galaxy Radio FM 106.1, located in Lungi, Kafu-Bullom Chiefdom, Port Loko District, was gutted by fire on 17 February 2026. The station is a registered member of the association.
The association noted that the cause of the incident remains unknown. The latest fire comes barely weeks after a similar incident razed Radio Bankhi-Solofaray in Kukuna Town, Bramaia Chiefdom, Kambia District, on 9 January 2026. Another station, Voice of Youth, was also recently affected by fire in the same region.
According to Galaxy Radio’s Station Manager, Dauda Chernor Jalloh, the full extent of the damage is yet to be assessed. However, initial reports indicate that computers, transmitters, furniture, office records, and other operational equipment worth millions of Leones were destroyed.
SiLBA President, Stanley Bangura Jr, described the incidents as shocking and devastating for the broadcasting community.
“We are completely devastated by these shocking incidents that have affected three radio stations within six weeks,” he stated, noting that the association had already been mobilising support for the reconstruction of Radio Bankhi-Solofaray and Voice of Youth prior to the latest incident.
Bangura extended the association’s sympathy to the boards, management, staff of Galaxy Radio, and the affected communities, acknowledging the significant loss and the added pressure on SiLBA’s ongoing fundraising efforts.
In response to the spate of incidents, SiLBA has appealed to partners, media stakeholders, development organisations, and the general public for urgent financial, technical, and logistical support. The association is seeking assistance to facilitate the reconstruction of the three stations, restore broadcasting operations, and provide fire-prevention training to reduce future risks.
SiLBA, incorporated in 2022, serves as a national umbrella body promoting cooperation, professional standards, and the collective welfare of broadcasters across Sierra Leone.
The repeated destruction of community radio stations in the North-West Region has raised fresh concerns about the vulnerability of media infrastructure and the urgent need for strengthened safety mechanisms within the broadcasting sector.
