MEDIA ADVISORY: Proper Accreditation Required for Foreign Journalists Operating in Sierra Leone
The Ministry of Information and Communications has expressed concerns regarding the presence of unaccredited foreign journalists in Sierra Leone, prompting the issuance of this media advisory.
To maintain transparency and accountability in the country's media landscape, the Ministry is urging all foreign journalists to obtain proper accreditation from the Ministry before commencing their work in Sierra Leone.
Accreditation is necessary for a wide range of events, including national events, elections, festivals, and other activities. The Ministry requests that Ministries, Departments, Agencies (MDAs) of Government, as well as the general public, verify the accreditation status of any foreign journalist before engaging in any business or collaboration.
It is crucial to note that failure to comply with this notice will result in the full enforcement of the law. Foreign journalists found operating in Sierra Leone without the required accreditation may face legal consequences.
To streamline the accreditation process, the Information Directorate of the Ministry of Information and Communications has outlined the necessary documents for foreign journalists seeking accreditation. These documents include an official letter of accreditation, a completed application form, a copy of the applicant's passport (valid for at least six months prior to planned entrance to Sierra Leone), a copy of the visa, and a copy of the Press Card.
Foreign journalists are encouraged to transmit scanned copies of these documents in electronic form (PDF format) via email to the following addresses: permanent.secretary@moic.gov.sl and director.information@moic.gov.sl. The Ministry assures applicants that their submissions will be reviewed promptly, and temporary accreditations will be issued within three days of document submission.
Upon receiving temporary accreditation, representatives of foreign mass media will be issued an accreditation card by the Ministry of Information and Communications. Journalists seeking the accreditation card must contact the Ministry upon their arrival in Sierra Leone at the following location:
8th Floor, Youyi Building Brookfield, Freetown Sierra Leone
The Ministry of Information and Communications emphasizes the importance of adhering to these accreditation procedures for foreign journalists, as it contributes to ensuring transparency and accountability in Sierra Leone's media landscape.
