The Chief of Staff, Akosua Frema Osei-Opare, says the media is a vital pillar of democracy and plays a pivotal role in informing, educating and empowering citizens.
In view of this, she has called on all stakeholders to recognise the invaluable contributions of journalists and media organisations and ensure they have the support they need to carry out their work.
Madam Frema Osei-Opare was speaking on behalf of President Akufo-Addo at the formal opening of the 3rd African Media Convention (AMC), a landmark event aimed at shaping the future of African media.
The Chief of Staff at the office of the President drew participants’ attention to the challenges facing the media landscape and emphasised the need for collaboration between government, media stakeholders and civil society to address issues such as press freedom, misinformation and the environmental crisis.
She called for a concerted effort to create an enabling environment that fosters media freedom, innovation and sustainability.
“We cannot underestimate the importance of a free and vibrant media in Africa, especially in the face of pressing challenges such as climate change and misinformation,” she said, adding “it is imperative that we work together to strengthen the media ecosystem and provide the necessary support for journalists to fulfill their essential role.”
The Minister for Information-designate, Fatimatu Abubakar on her part emphasised the government’s commitment to supporting the media industry.
Fatimatu Abubakar outlined various initiatives implemented by the Ghanaian government, including the launch of media capacity enhancement programs and the establishment of mechanisms to combat misinformation.
“We recognise the vital role of the media in our society and are committed to providing the support and resources needed to ensure that journalists can perform their duties effectively,” Fatimatu Abubakar stated.
The Director of Information and Communication at the African Union (AU) Commission, Ms Leslie Richer, emphasised the pivotal role of media in advancing the AU’s agenda for a prosperous and integrated Africa.
Ms. Richer underscored the importance of collaboration between the AU and media stakeholders to effectively communicate the organisation’s initiatives and achievements to the African populace.
She called for increased support for media capacity building initiatives to ensure journalists are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to accurately report on AU developments and promote the organisation’s vision for the continent.
The President of Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Albert Kwabena Dwumfuor, highlighted the importance of support for media professionals, especially in the context of Ghana’s improved press freedom index.
Mr Dwumfuor called for continued collaboration between media stakeholders and the government to address challenges facing the media industry.
“As journalists, we face various challenges in the course of our work, and it is essential that we have the support of the government and other stakeholders. We must work together to create an environment that promotes media freedom, innovation and sustainability.”
The convention, which has brought together over 2,000 media practitioners, policymakers, scholars and stakeholders from across the African continent, will serve as a platform for robust discussions on the intersection of media and environmental sustainability.
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