NASSIT Honoured by SLAJ for Strengthening Media Growth

By Benjamin S. Conteh

The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has awarded the National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT) for its unwavering support to the country’s media industry. The accolade, dubbed the Outstanding Support Award, was presented during SLAJ’s Handing-Over Ceremony held on July 11, 2025, at the Bintumani Hotel in Freetown.

Receiving the award on behalf of NASSIT was Samuel Jeremiah Kargbo, Proprietor and Managing Editor of the Sky Times Newspaper. The announcement drew resounding applause from a packed audience of both senior and upcoming journalists from across the country
many of whom acknowledged NASSIT’s long-standing commitment to media development.

NASSIT has made a name for itself through consistent financial support to media outlets, particularly by placing full-page adverts, centre spreads, top strips, and colourful promotions in various print and broadcast platforms. These advertising efforts have provided a vital revenue stream for many news organizations, helping them to remain operational and editorially independent.

In addition to advertising, NASSIT has been proactive in media capacity building. It frequently organizes training sessions to equip journalists with a deeper understanding of social security, pension systems, and the informal sector. These workshops have enhanced the quality of reporting in these areas while fostering greater public awareness of social insurance issues.

NASSIT also remains an active supporter of SLAJ’s institutional activities. A prime example is the annual media cocktail it hosts
an informal networking event that brings journalists together with NASSIT officials to share ideas and build stronger partnerships.

This recognition by SLAJ underscores NASSIT’s vital role not just in social protection, but also in strengthening the media’s ability to inform, educate, and serve the public.