The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has emphasized the importance of ethics and integrity in journalism, urging media practitioners to uphold these values in their work. According to Mr. Bernard Ato Otabil, Director of Communications at the BoG, ethics is a fundamental character that shapes decision-making and is essential for professional duty. He made these remarks at the fourth edition of the Bono Regional branch of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) awards in Sunyani.
The event, themed “Ethics, integrity and impactful journalism: Essential ingredients for societal transformation,” brought together media practitioners and stakeholders to discuss the role of ethics in journalism. Mr. Otabil stressed that ethics in journalism is not only a professional requirement but also the foundation of public trust. He highlighted the importance of accuracy, fairness, objectivity, and independence in reportage, emphasizing that these values are crucial in an era where misinformation and disinformation can spread rapidly.
Mr. Otabil noted that integrity is one of the core values of the central bank and urged the media to remain independent, resist undue influences, and prioritize public interest. He emphasized that a media landscape anchored on integrity strengthens democracy, promotes transparency, and empowers citizens to make informed decisions. As the fourth estate, the media is protected under Article 162 of the 1992 Constitution, and Mr. Otabil encouraged media practitioners to use this mandate to provide reliable information for citizens and policymakers.
The BoG, in partnership with the GJA, has established the Governor’s Economic and Financial Story of the Year (GEFSY) award to encourage accurate reporting on economic and financial matters. Mr. Otabil commended the media in the Bono Region and expressed hope that the collaboration between the media and the bank would be strengthened to facilitate accelerated national development. This partnership aims to promote responsible journalism and support the country's development agenda.
Mrs. Regina Benneh Siaw, the Bono Regional Chairperson of the GJA, expressed appreciation to major sponsors of the awards, including the Newmont Ahafo South Mines and the Newmont Ahafo Development Fund (NADeF) of the Newmont Ghana Gold Limited. The awards ceremony recognized and rewarded outstanding journalism in the region, with a focus on promoting ethics and integrity in reporting.
The theme of the event highlights the critical role of ethics and integrity in journalism, particularly in today's digital age. Mr. Otabil cautioned that while Artificial Intelligence and digital innovation present opportunities, the media must not undermine the core values of accuracy, fairness, and accountability. He emphasized the need for journalists to act as custodians of truth, ensuring that their reports are accurate, balanced, and informative.
The Bank of Ghana's advice to the media reflects the importance of responsible journalism in promoting national development and stability. By upholding ethics and integrity, the media can contribute to a well-informed public discourse, support democratic governance, and foster economic growth. The collaboration between the BoG and the GJA aims to promote these values and encourage impactful journalism that benefits society.
Key points
- The Bank of Ghana emphasizes the importance of ethics and integrity in journalism.
- The BoG and GJA have partnered to establish the Governor’s Economic and Financial Story of the Year award.
- The media is urged to prioritize public interest, accuracy, fairness, objectivity, and independence in reportage.
