The Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast (UCC), Sir Samuel Esson Jonah (Sam Jonah), has criticized the media for their lack of coverage on the fight against illegal mining, also known as galamsey. Speaking at the launch of the 75th Anniversary of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) in Accra, he emphasized the crucial role journalists play in upholding truth, independence, and accountability in Ghana’s democracy.
Sir Jonah expressed his disappointment in the media’s diminishing focus on galamsey stories, questioning their commitment to unbiased reporting, especially with the upcoming general elections on the horizon. He raised concerns about the growing influence of the political class on journalism and urged journalists to remain steadfast in their pursuit of truth, despite external pressures.
Addressing the issue of galamsey, Sir Jonah highlighted the detrimental impact of the illegal mining activities, including the rise in deformities among children, the prevalence of kidney and liver diseases, and high mortality rates in affected areas. He lamented the fact that these critical issues do not receive sustained attention from journalists, even though the country continues to suffer from the consequences of galamsey.
In his call to action, Sir Jonah urged the GJA to uphold the principles of good governance, justice, and accountability, stressing the importance of truth in shaping Ghana’s future. The theme of the GJA’s 75th Anniversary celebrations, “75 Years of Excellence in Journalism: Honouring the Past, Encouraging the Present, shaping the Future,” underscores the vital role of journalism in Ghana’s development.
As Ghana prepares for another electoral milestone, Sir Jonah emphasized the need for professional and unbiased coverage of the electoral process to ensure a fair and transparent outcome. He urged journalists to remember their purpose, power, and responsibility in shaping the nation’s future and warned of the dire consequences of continued silence on pressing issues like galamsey.
