Ghana has been selected to host the 6th Continental Congress of the Federation of African Journalists (FAJ). The decision was made by the FAJ Steering Committee, which unanimously approved Ghana's bid. The committee met in Accra from September 17 to 18, 2026. The Congress will bring together journalists' unions and associations from across Africa to discuss the federation's program and priorities.
The 6th Continental Congress is expected to address pressing issues affecting journalists on the continent. These include attacks on media freedom, violations of labor rights, and increasing economic pressures on journalists and media organizations. The Steering Committee emphasized the need for stronger collective action to defend journalists' rights and safeguard journalism. This comes as journalists face growing challenges in their line of work.
Ghana's successful bid was facilitated by the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA). The GJA organized the FAJ Steering Committee meeting in Accra, with support from KGL Group. During their stay, FAJ leaders met with President John Dramani Mahama to discuss media freedom, journalist safety, and the role of independent journalism in Africa's development agenda.
FAJ President Omar Faruk Osman highlighted the need for a stronger response to the challenges facing journalists. He cited growing attacks on journalists, restrictions on their freedoms, and increasing economic insecurity. Osman called for stronger professional journalism, wider media literacy, and sustained efforts to protect information integrity.
The FAJ Steering Committee also took several key decisions during its meeting. These included approving the federation's financial and independent audit reports, admitting four new journalists' organizations to membership, and adopting a new communication strategy. The strategy aims to increase the voice and visibility of the Pan-African journalists' movement.
GJA President Albert Kwabena Dwumfour emphasized the importance of improving journalists' welfare and working conditions. He called for practical measures to enhance their safety and professional security. Dwumfour also advocated for closer cooperation among journalists and media organizations to address the challenges facing the profession.
Ghana's hosting of the 6th FAJ Continental Congress is expected to contribute to continental efforts to strengthen media freedom and promote a safer environment for journalists. Preparations for the event will form part of the federation's work in the coming months. The Congress will provide a platform for journalists' unions and associations to engage with solidarity organizations and cooperating partners.
Key points
- Ghana to host 6th Continental Congress of Federation of African Journalists
- Congress to address pressing issues affecting journalists on the continent
- Event expected to promote stronger collective action to defend journalists' rights
