I had the privilege of moderating a profoundly reflective panel of distinguished journalists whose work bore witness to some of the most defining moments in Sierra Leone’s history.

As we honoured colleagues who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, we listened to compelling firsthand accounts of courage, professional dilemma, and resilience from journalists who reported under the most extreme conditions. Their testimonies underscored the evolution of journalism in Sierra Leone across the pre-war, conflict, and post-war peacebuilding eras, and reaffirmed the enduring responsibility of the press to safeguard memory, uphold accountability, and contribute to national healing.

I commend the leadership of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) and the Ministry of Information and Civic Education for their stewardship for facilitating this important work of remembrance and professional introspection.

National Remembrance Day calls on us not only to honour the fallen, but to draw lessons from those who endured, and to recommit ourselves to ethical, conflict-sensitive, and public-interest journalism.

May remembrance continue to guide our practice, and truth remain our compass.

Lolo Yeama Sarah Thompson-Oguamah

Lolo Yeama Sarah Thompson-Oguamah