The commitment of the government to ensuring a safe environment for media practitioners in Ghana has been reiterated by the Minister-designate of Information, Fatimatu Abubakar.
During a recent tour of media organizations, she highlighted the various programs introduced by the government to support media practitioners, including the Media Capacity Enhancement Program and the Coordinated Mechanism on the Safety of Journalists.
Speaking on the X platform of the Information Ministry, Fatimatu Abubakar emphasized the government’s dedication to providing a safe and sustainable environment for media professionals. This commitment comes at a time when Ghana has seen an improvement in its World Press Freedom Index ranking, moving from 62 to 50.
The National President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Albert Dwumfuor, credited this progress to the decisive actions taken by the GJA leadership. At a World Press Freedom Day event in Koforidua, he condemned the recent attack on the offices of Class FM and called for a thorough investigation and prosecution of those responsible.
The theme for this year’s World Press Freedom Day is “Leveraging journalism for a sustainable environment and future.” The GJA President called on the media to renew their campaign against illegal and irresponsible mining, known as ‘Galamsey’, to protect the environment and ensure a sustainable future for the country.
The US Press Attache Kevin Brosnahan expressed concern over the rising attacks on journalists in Ghana, emphasizing that physical attacks, intimidation, and threats against journalists are unacceptable. He highlighted the unresolved murder of journalist Ahmed Suale and called for justice for his family.
In response, Minister of Information designate, Fatimatu Abubakar, pledged the government’s commitment to further improving the country’s press freedom ranking. She outlined the efforts being made to enhance press freedom indicators and ensure the safety of journalists through collaboration with the National Media Commission and advocacy for severe punishment for those who attack journalists.
The government’s dedication to creating a safe and conducive environment for media practitioners in Ghana is evident through the implementation of various programs and initiatives aimed at supporting and protecting journalists.
As the country continues to strive for press freedom and journalistic integrity, the role of the government in upholding these values remains crucial.
