President John Dramani Mahama has announced that GH¢10 million will be allocated in the 2027 Budget as seed money for the Media Development Fund. This fund aims to support journalists' welfare, training, and professional development. The announcement was made at the 30th Ghana Journalists Association Media Awards in Accra on November 7, 2026. The ceremony was chaired by the Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II.
The Media Development Fund will support various initiatives, including investigative reporting, digital literacy, and safety training for journalists. President Mahama recalled that he had previously announced plans to reactivate the fund at the 29th GJA Media Awards. He expressed his commitment to working with the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) to secure contributions from other corporate institutions to the fund. Specifically, he appealed to KGL and the Bank of Ghana to contribute.
President Mahama emphasized the importance of respecting editorial independence while providing practical support for journalists. He stressed that media practitioners must be allowed to investigate and publish stories without censorship, intimidation, or undue interference. The President also expressed concern about the conduct of some security personnel who harass media practitioners in their attempt to project authority. He assured that his administration would take action whenever a media person is unfairly assaulted while performing their duties.
The President paid tribute to the late investigative journalist, Ahmed Hussein-Suale, whose killing remains a painful reminder of the dangers journalists face in pursuing investigative stories. He welcomed Ghana's improvement in the 2026 World Press Freedom Index, moving from 52nd to 39th position among 180 countries. President Mahama pledged to work with the GJA to maintain an environment in which journalists can perform their duties without fear.
President Mahama also addressed the growing influence of digital platforms and the spread of false information. He cited a video showing people in Liberia exposing poor road construction, which was later circulated in Ghana with an altered voice-over. He expressed concern about the use of artificial intelligence to create fake images and recordings, including fraudulent investment promotions in which he was falsely portrayed as endorsing investment schemes.
The President tasked the Media Foundation for West Africa and the GJA to undertake consultations and make recommendations on how to manage the changing media environment. He urged editors to give greater attention to issues affecting ordinary people rather than concentrating largely on daily political exchanges. President Mahama also encouraged experienced editors to create opportunities for younger reporters to learn and develop their journalistic skills.
President Mahama criticized excessive media zealotry, particularly instances in which journalists publicly challenge ministers to call into their programs to answer questions about alleged discrepancies. He urged public officials to respond to difficult questions with the same openness they demonstrate when announcing their achievements. The President concluded by reaffirming his commitment to upholding the media's responsibility to hold public officials accountable while promoting a positive and development-focused agenda.
Key points
- President Mahama announces GH¢10 million allocation for Media Development Fund in 2027 Budget
- Fund aims to support journalists' welfare, training, and professional development
- President Mahama emphasizes importance of respecting editorial independence and promoting a positive media environment
Reporting sources
- Daily Graphic · Daily Graphic
