The African Director Search for Common Grounds Francess Fortune yesterday launched the three years Strategic Development Plan (SDP) of Women in the Media (WIMSAL) at the Sierra Leone Association of Journalist (SLAJ) Harry Yansaneh Memorial hall.
WIMSAL was formed in 2007 as a media group to advocate for more equal rights for female journalists in the country. During the three years SDP will create a solid platform for the progress of the organization.
In her opening remarks the Chairperson of the Independent Media Commission (IMC) Bernadette Cole said that the SDP is an exciting way to create opportunity and mutually supportive streams of activity to really tackle some of the problems facing women in the media from every angle.
She added that it has been demonstrated time and again that women’s issues will only be placed firmly on the public agenda if women themselves are in position to influence public motion.
The Chairperson maintained that the launching is another serious event added to the aims and objectives of the organization.
The Association President, Doreen Kalokoh said that the Plan should be seen to influence the future direction of the organization. It should be used as a working document to ensure that activities and projects developed by the executive conform to the wishes and aspirations set out and clearly defined in this Plan.
She urged WIMSAL members to uplift WIMSAL from the ashes to the acme.
President of SLAJ, Umaru Fofanah stated that there have been unfair thinking and lack of respect for female Journalists.
He urged female journalists to show their character and challenge to do what the men can do. The President also urged them to enroll in tertiary institutions to improve themselves.
The Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs Dr Deniss Sandy encouraged female Journalists to grow with the ethics of the profession and go after credible stories.
In his keynote address, Deputy Information Minister, Sheka Tarawallie noted that the launching of the Plan is a laudable venture.
He appealed to them to always do good work, follow the rules and regulations of the profession and always remember that integrity counts.
Charley Cox from Cordaid gave an insight of the Plan.
By Abibatu Kamara
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