Editors Guild SL Strengthens Ties with Gambian Journalists

In a significant move to enhance media cooperation, Mr. Kandeh Sesay, the Managing Editor and Publisher of the Watch Newspaper, representing the Guild of Newspaper Editors Sierra Leone, engaged in fruitful discussions with members of the Guild of Newspaper Editors in the Gambia and the Gambian Press Union (GPU).

Mr. Sesay’s five-day working visit to the Gambia, commencing on January 8th and concluding on January 13th, 2024, aims to foster collaboration and mutual understanding among journalists in the two countries.

Expressing optimism, Mr. Sesay highlighted that the media cooperation with Gambian journalists would provide valuable learning platforms, facilitate experience sharing, and yield mutual benefits, particularly for those in the print media. He emphasized that such collaboration could enhance business cooperation, addressing challenges in accessing printing materials for newspaper production.

“I am positive that the Gambia Press Union and the Sierra Leone Guild of Newspaper Editors will be a force to reckon with should they accept to work together,” stated Mr. Sesay, underscoring the potential mutual benefits.

During his visit, Mr. Sesay met with the Gambia Press Union, as well as the management and staff of the Standard Newspaper and the Point Newspaper, both based in Serrekunda, Gambia.

In discussions with Mr. Modou S. Joof, the Secretary-General of GPU, who also serves as a Journalism Trainer & Fact-Checker, Mr. Sesay learned about the successes and challenges of the Gambia media. Mr. Joof highlighted the presence of some outdated laws but noted that the current government has not jailed any journalist since assuming power. He also shared insights into the Gambia Press Union’s efforts in providing training for members in fact-checking, misinformation, and disinformation. Additionally, Mr. Joof discussed the challenges the media faces in receiving payments from government institutions and private organizations.

Mr. Sesay held fruitful conversations with Mr. Musa. S. Sheriff of the Voice Newspaper

Mr. Sesay’s conversation with Mr. Musa. S. Sheriff, the Managing Editor of the Voice Newspaper, included praise for the initiative, recognizing the importance of information sharing. He commended the Managing Editor of the Watch Newspaper for fostering mutual understanding between Gambian and Sierra Leonean journalists.

This collaborative effort between the Guild of Newspaper Editors SL and Gambian journalists holds promise for strengthening ties, fostering a supportive media environment, and promoting shared learning and growth across borders. The potential impact on both countries’ media landscapes is significant, with a vision for enhanced professionalism, resource accessibility, and mutual support.