Africell Sierra Leone received high praise for its commitment to strengthening community radio during the 20th anniversary celebration of MODCAR 94.9 FM in Moyamba District on February 28, 2025. The event, which was held on the eve of Ramadan, brought together journalists, community leaders, and stakeholders to reflect on the role of community radio in fostering development and civic engagement.

Among the highlights of the celebration was the presentation of a Certificate of Recognition to Alhaji Manika Kamara, Secretary General of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ). The people of Moyamba and MODCAR FM honored Kamara for his unwavering dedication, outstanding performance, and valuable contributions to media development in the district.

Keynote Address: The Power of Community Radio

Kamara, who served as Keynote Speaker, addressed the gathering on the theme “Community Ownership of the Radio – Be Visible.” In his speech, he emphasized the critical role of community radio in ensuring access to vital information, promoting transparency, and amplifying local voices.

He reflected on past challenges faced by MODCAR FM, particularly its struggle with electricity supply, which had significantly hindered operations. Kamara recalled a media engagement in Moyamba organized by the Independent Radio Network (IRN) in collaboration with SLAJ, where he witnessed firsthand the station’s difficulties in staying on air due to erratic power supply.

Africell’s Timely Intervention

Motivated by the station’s plight, Kamara reached out to Africell Sierra Leone through Abdul Karim Sesay, a dedicated professional within the company.

“Recognizing the importance of community radio, I reached out to Africell through Abdul Karim Sesay, who assured me that Africell would step in to help,” Kamara stated.

He recounted the moment of relief when he received a call from the station manager a few weeks later with the good news:

“MODCAR is now enjoying a 24-hour electricity supply thanks to Africell’s intervention.”

Kamara expressed profound gratitude to Africell Sierra Leone for their swift response to the community’s needs, describing their support as a crucial lifeline for media sustainability in the region.

“This recognition is truly humbling. It was a privilege to play a small role in ensuring that the people of Moyamba have consistent access to information through their community radio.”

Acknowledging MODCAR’s Impact

Kamara also commended the management and staff of MODCAR FM for their resilience and commitment to public service broadcasting.

“Your dedication to informing, educating, and empowering this community is truly inspiring. I look forward to continued collaboration in strengthening media access across Sierra Leone.”

Corporate Responsibility and Press Freedom

The partnership between MODCAR FM and Africell Sierra Leone underscores the power of corporate social responsibility in supporting local media initiatives.

Kamara concluded his remarks by emphasizing the importance of press freedom and community-driven media development:

“Thank you once again for this thoughtful recognition. It is a reminder of the impact we can make when we work together. Long live Press Freedom!”

A Milestone for MODCAR FM

As MODCAR FM celebrates 20 years of service, the station continues to stand as a beacon of grassroots journalism, bridging the information gap and fostering development in Moyamba District. With continued support from stakeholders like Africell, the future of community radio in Sierra Leone looks promising.