Ghana Allocates GH¢10 Million for Media Fund in 2027 Budget

President John Dramani Mahama has announced an allocation of GH¢10 million to the Media Development Fund to support journalists and promote the development of the media industry in Ghana. This move is part of his government's commitment to protecting press freedom and strengthening media independence. The allocation was announced at the 30th Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Media Awards in Accra.

President Mahama welcomed Ghana's improvement in the global press freedom ranking from 64th to 39th, describing it as significant progress in the country's efforts to promote media freedom. He assured journalists that the government would continue to take action against assaults on media practitioners and treat seriously any reporter who reports a threat to their life. This commitment was made to ensure that journalists can perform their duties without fear of threats or attacks.

The President also called on corporate institutions, including the KGL Group, to contribute to the Media Development Fund to ensure sustainable support for the media industry. He urged journalists to exercise greater responsibility in verifying information before publication or broadcast, particularly by establishing the source and authenticity of recordings before airing them. This is especially important in the digital age, where misinformation can spread quickly.

The Chief Justice, His Lordship Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, echoed President Mahama's remarks, underscoring the importance of a free and responsible media to democratic governance. He said citizens could not make informed choices about their society if they were denied access to information, describing freedom of speech as essential to the country's democracy. A free and responsible media is crucial for holding the government accountable.

The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, described the awards as an important national occasion dedicated to recognising excellence in journalism. He said the ceremony reflected the resilience of the GJA and its sustained commitment to advocating for the welfare of its members and promoting professional journalism. Mr Bagbin urged journalists to continue supporting the work of Parliament through accurate and fair reporting.

The Patron of the GJA, the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, congratulated all award winners and commended their contributions to journalism in Ghana. The 30th GJA Media Awards was held under the theme, “Celebrating Excellence, Advancing Media Freedom and Combating Hate Speech in the Digital Age,” bringing together media practitioners and other stakeholders to recognise outstanding achievements in the profession.

The Media Development Fund aims to support journalists and promote the development of the media industry in Ghana. The fund will provide financial support to media practitioners, enabling them to perform their duties effectively. The government's commitment to protecting press freedom and strengthening media independence is a significant step towards promoting democracy and good governance in Ghana.

Key points

• President Mahama allocates GH¢10 million to the Media Development Fund to support journalists and promote media development.
• The government is committed to protecting press freedom and strengthening media independence.
• Journalists are urged to exercise greater responsibility in verifying information before publication or broadcast.