New National Film Policy Aims to Professionalize Sierra Leone’s Movie Industry

Sierra Leone has taken a major step toward revitalizing its film sector with the approval of the National Film Policy 2025, a comprehensive framework designed to professionalize, regulate, and expand the country’s movie industry.

The policy, spearheaded by the Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, seeks to establish a well-structured and sustainable film ecosystem that drives job creation, attracts investment, and promotes Sierra Leone’s cultural identity. Its approval by Cabinet marks a defining moment for the country’s creative economy, setting the stage for the formal development of the local film industry after decades of informal operations.

Key Provisions of the Policy

The National Film Policy 2025 introduces a wide range of initiatives aimed at strengthening the film sector. These include:

Establishing a legal and institutional framework under the Independent Media Commission (IMC) to regulate and coordinate film production.

Creating a National Film Fund to support production, training, and film festivals.

Introducing tax incentives and rebates to attract both local and foreign investment.

Implementing a Single-Window Permit System to simplify film approvals.

Developing a Film City, regional training institutes, and mobile cinemas to enhance accessibility and professional growth nationwide.

To ensure effective coordination, the policy establishes key structures such as the IMC Film and Video Censorship Directorate, the National Council for Movie Makers – Sierra Leone (NCMMSL), the Sierra Leone Institute of Film and Media Studies, and the National Film Archive. These institutions will oversee regulation, training, licensing, and preservation of the country’s audiovisual heritage.

The policy is expected to open up new opportunities for young filmmakers and other creative professionals. By formalizing the film sector, it aims to create thousands of jobs, boost local content production, and enhance Sierra Leone’s participation in regional and international film markets, including within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework.

Industry stakeholders have welcomed the move as a long-awaited foundation for a thriving creative economy that celebrates Sierra Leonean storytelling and talent.

Commenting on the policy’s approval, Minister Chernor Bah expressed optimism about its transformative potential, describing it as a long-overdue victory for the creative community.

“After years of setbacks and delays, we’ve reached a new dawn for Sierra Leone’s film industry. President Bio has given clear direction to move boldly forward, and with Cabinet’s authority, we are ready to turn decades of dreams into action building a vibrant film industry that powers jobs, civic pride, and progress,” he said.

The Ministry of Information and Civic Education will begin working with relevant ministries, development partners, private investors, and the local film community to implement the National Film Policy 2025.

The policy’s rollout signals a new chapter for Sierra Leone’s film industry one defined by professionalism, innovation, and a renewed commitment to cultural excellence.