NICORA Mourns Fallen Journalist
The Nimba Community Radio Association (NICORA) is currently mourning the loss of one of its reporters, Joseph Ben Kerkulah, who met his tragic death on April 13, 2024, at the John F. Kennedy Referral Hospital in Monrovia due to severe injuries sustained in an accident.
The incident occurred while the late Kerkulah and his colleague, Karnah Ziamo, were traveling back from the Association of Liberia Community Radio (ALICOR) election that was held in Kakata on March 30, 2024.
Their motorcycle veered off the road, resulting in serious injuries for both individuals. Despite efforts to seek medical attention at a local hospital in Kakata and subsequently at the JFK Medical Center for advanced care, the late Kerkulah's injuries were severe, leading to his unfortunate demise.
His untimely passing has deeply impacted the local community in Ganta and Nimba County, where he was known for his journalistic talent and contributions.
“We have lost a good reporter of this generation,” said James Matadi of Voice of Karn in Karnplay.
Joseph Kerkulah’s career in journalism began in 2008 with Radio Kergheaman, followed by roles in various media institutions, including Truth FM in Saclepea, where he served as a reporter and producer.
Kerkula was recognized not only for his journalism work but also for his dedication as a French teacher and his involvement in community engagement initiatives, such as the Nimba Interactive Forum.
As a French teacher, he taught in many high schools across Ganta as part of his service to the country.
“We have lost a good French teacher and his command over French helped some of us to speak French today,” said one Laykarnue Jor in Ganta.
The late Kerkulah acquired his secondary education as a refugee in Guinea, where he completed his primary education at Mohomou Refugee School.
He attended several workshops to advance his skills in the journalistic profession and later went to the University of Liberia and studied environmental science.
At the age of 44, Kerkula is survived by his fiancée, Vivian Kollie, and two children.
The community is rallying to organize a befitting farewell for him. NICORA has urged all radio stations to dedicate 30 minutes of airtime for an SOS program as a tribute to Kerkulah and to support his family during this challenging time.
“We are calling on all our stations to give 30 minutes of their airtime in honor of Kerkulah, by using the time to make an SOS call to enhance the burial and also tend to his kids and their mother,” said Mr. Kennedy Domah, NICORA President. Meanwhile, the funeral service is expected to take place within the next three weeks, as announced by the fiancée of the deceased. The legacy of Joseph Ben Kerkulah as a journalist, educator, and community advocate will be remembered and honored by those who knew him.