By Alpha Barrie

The Sports Writers Association of Sierra Leone (SWASAL) celebrated World Sports Journalists Day on Friday, July 5th, 2024, with the official launching of the official logo for its 50th anniversary celebration, scheduled for August 2024.

In his opening remarks, the President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists, Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, honoured Dr. Victor Massaquoi for his stanch support of journalism-related activities.

He expressed his joy in celebrating SWASAL’s 50th anniversary, underscoring that this milestone is a testament to the dedication, passion, and hard work of sports journalists.

Ahmed Sahid Nasralla continued with their role in shaping sport decisions, noting that this celebration is also a moment to reflect on SWASAL’s journey and its future.

The SLAJ President paid respect to past presidents, executives, and founding members, calling on SWASAL to continue the promotion of diverse sports and support for sports administrators.

Mohamed Fajah Barrie, former SWASAL President, delivered a historical outlook, observing that many current members might not know the association’s history.

He revealed key founding figures such as Babatunde Roland-May, Gipo Felix George, Foday Kandeh, Samuel John, Daniel Olfied, and Roland Malama-Thomas, who contributed immensely to the profession.

Fajah Barrie urged the current executive to address challenges and boost the association’s stature, stating the importance of maintaining independence and unity, particularly with the upcoming Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) elections.

In his statement, the President of the National Olympic Committee/ Commonwealth Games Association of Sierra Leone (NOC/CGA-SLE), Prince Sualley, said journalists are very important in the development of sports, assuring that the NOC office will remain open to all sports journalists.

He advised sport journalists to always make sure that they do their job bias-free in the interest of development in sports.

SWASAL President Sahr Moris Jr. conveyed his appreciation for sports journalists’ efforts in disseminating sports news.

He lauded the extensive coverage of the Sierra Leone Premier League and recognised Bo Rangers for their third consecutive league win.

The SWASAL President also praised Musa Tombo Kamara and Mogbewmo Queens for their recent successes, commenting on the recent achievements of various sporting associations.

He underscored the necessity of ethical journalism and stated that any member attempting to involve SWASAL in SLFA politics would face strict measures.

Former SWASAL Secretary General, Dr. Victor Massaquoi, delivered the keynote address, celebrating the global importance of the day for journalists.

He called for unity and professionalism, urging members to produce quality work and continuously learn.

Dr. Massaquoi applauded the executive for increasing female participation in the association, noting that over 15 women were recruited during his tenure.

President Sahr Morris Jr. explained the description of SWASAL 50th anniversary logo, for which he said the 50th anniversary logo celebrates the milestone of reaching 50 years.

‘The number “50” is prominently displayed in stylised and elegant typography, with a tail at both ends symbolising a mixture of the past (1974) and the present (2024) and the future.’

‘The Gold colour symbolises the golden jubilee, as it is a golden moment in the history of SWASAL. The circle on the number zero of the 50, captures a summary of the popular sporting disciplines and the role SWASAL continues to play in promoting sports in Sierra Leone.’

‘The overall design conveys a sense of achievement, longevity, and celebration,’ he affirmed.

The event was climaxed with the official unveiling of the new 50th anniversary logo by Presidents of Volleyball and Swimming – Ahmed Khanou and Mohamed Turay respectively – former Presidents of SWASAL Mohamed Fajah Barrie and Frank Magnus Cole.