By Omari Jackson
As The Inquirer Newspaper celebrates 34 years of service to Liberia, I extend my profound appreciation to its management, editors, reporters, and staff for their unwavering commitment to journalistic excellence. Since its establishment, The Inquirer has been a steadfast guardian of truth, education, and public enlightenment, standing firm as a vital pillar of Liberia’s Fourth Estate in our evolving democracy.
This milestone, however, is not just a celebration of longevity but also a testament to resilience in the face of formidable challenges. Liberia’s media landscape has long grappled with economic hardships that threaten the very survival of independent journalism. The financial viability of media institutions remains a critical concern, with newspapers, radio stations, and online platforms struggling to sustain operations amid rising costs, limited advertising revenue, and an underdeveloped media economy.
Economic Realities Challenging the Media Landscape
Declining Advertising Revenue
Traditionally, newspapers rely on advertising as a major source of income. However, Liberia’s struggling private sector, coupled with government dominance in media sponsorship, has made independent financing difficult. Many businesses lack the resources to consistently invest in newspaper advertisements, and public-sector advertising is often politicized, favoring outlets that align with certain political interests. The Inquirer has had to navigate this precarious balance while maintaining its editorial independence.
High Cost of Printing and Distribution The print media in Liberia faces significant operational costs, including high import taxes on printing materials, ink, and newsprint. With Liberia’s economy largely import-dependent, fluctuations in the exchange rate and the high cost of transportation make newspaper production increasingly expensive. Many newspapers have struggled to maintain daily publications, with some reducing their frequency or moving entirely online. The Inquirer’s continued presence in print and digital spaces is a testament to its commitment despite these constraints.
Low Purchasing Power of Readers Economic hardships mean that fewer people can afford to buy newspapers daily. The average Liberian faces high living costs, making newspaper purchases a lower priority. This financial strain has led to a decline in circulation and forced many newspapers to rely more on online readership, which presents its own challenges in terms of monetization and sustainability.
The Digital Disruption The global shift toward digital media has affected traditional newspapers everywhere, and Liberia is no exception. While digital platforms provide wider reach, they do not always generate the revenue needed to sustain high-quality journalism. Many readers expect free access to news online, and with limited digital advertising opportunities, media houses struggle to monetize their content. The Inquirer, however, has adapted by maintaining an active online presence, ensuring that its journalism reaches a broader audience while staying true to its mission.
Limited Institutional Support for Press Freedom While Liberia enjoys a relatively free press environment compared to the past, financial instability makes media houses vulnerable to undue influence. The lack of strong financial backing means that some journalists face pressure to self-censor or align with political or corporate interests to stay afloat. The Inquirer’s resilience in maintaining editorial independence, even in difficult times, is commendable.
Honoring the Visionaries Who Paved the Way
As we reflect on The Inquirer’s 34-year journey, we must honor the visionaries whose efforts laid the foundation for its success. The late T. Max Teah and the late Phillip N. Wesseh played instrumental roles in the newspaper’s establishment and growth, ensuring that it remained a trusted voice for the Liberian people. Their legacy of fearless journalism and dedication to press freedom continues to inspire a new generation of journalists.
Additionally, Roger B. Seton, who has singlehandedly provided material support to the institution, J. Grody Dorboh, Sam Slewion, and Gabriel Williams have been key figures in shaping the newspaper’s foundation. Their collective vision and sacrifice helped establish The Inquirer as a leading platform for news, analysis, and national discourse. Their contributions have left an indelible mark on Liberia’s media industry, reinforcing the principles of free speech and responsible journalism.
A Call for Sustainable Journalism
As The Inquirer celebrates this milestone, it is crucial for stakeholders—government, private sector, media practitioners, and civil society—to prioritize the sustainability of independent journalism in Liberia. The media is essential for holding power to account, informing citizens, and fostering national dialogue. Investing in the press, ensuring equitable advertising distribution, and creating an enabling business environment for media houses are crucial steps toward securing the future of journalism in the country.
Despite the economic hurdles, The Inquirer has stood as a beacon of journalistic integrity, truth, and resilience. It continues to educate, inform, and entertain the Liberian public while navigating the complex realities of the media landscape. This commitment deserves recognition, support, and celebration.
Congratulations on 34 years of journalistic distinction!
May The Inquirer’s legacy continue to inspire, empower, and serve as a watchdog for democracy in Liberia.
The End