The President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Albert Kwabena Dwumfour has underscored the critical role of the media in preserving democracy.

He is also advocating for improved welfare for journalists.

Speaking to an audience that included the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin, and Minister of Finance, Mr. Mohammed Amin Adam, at the Northern Regional GJA Awards in Tamale, Dwumfour lauded the contributions of journalists in Ghana, particularly in the face of economic challenges and attacks on media freedom.

He acknowledged the resilience and professionalism displayed by media practitioners, calling for continued dedication to upholding the ethics of journalism.

"I commend all journalists and media practitioners for your selfless dedication to duty and contributions to the development of our dear country," Dwumfour said.

He highlighted the courage of journalists who, despite numerous challenges, continue to serve as guardians of democracy by ensuring accountability and transparency.

Support for Media Freedom

Dwumfour called on Speaker Bagbin to support a Private Members' Bill aimed at promoting media freedom and improving the working conditions of journalists, emphasizing that journalists are among the lowest-paid professionals in Ghana and urged the Minister of Finance to champion initiatives that will improve their financial well-being.

He also appealed for increased resources for state-owned media such as the Ghana News Agency (GNA) and the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) to fulfill their mandate more effectively.

"Strong institutions, not strong individuals, are responsible for developing nations and ensuring accountability," Dwumfour remarked, quoting former U.S. President Barack Obama during his visit to Ghana.

The Role of Media in Ensuring Peaceful Elections

Dwumfuor said the theme of the awards ceremony, "Ensuring Violence-Free Elections: The Role of the Media", was particularly timely as Ghana prepares for the 2024 general elections.

He stressed the sacred role of the media in promoting peaceful political discourse, exposing hate speech, and providing balanced, impartial coverage of elections.

"As the fourth estate of the realm, our role in guarding our democracy and the peace we are enjoying comes into play, and it is very sacred," he stated.

Dwumfour urged media professionals to commit to fact-based reporting and avoid sensationalism, while also encouraging collaboration among media outlets to promote peaceful elections.

He further announced that the GJA had signed an MOU with the U.S. Embassy to train 155 journalists across the country on best practices for fact-based, non-partisan election reporting. This initiative aims to foster violence-free and credible elections in Ghana through informed journalism.

Tackling Galamsey and Environmental Protection

In addition to election-related matters, Dwumfour addressed the growing concern over illegal mining, commonly known as Galamsey, and praised journalists for bringing the issue to the forefront of public discourse and urged them to continue holding authorities accountable.

"Let us monitor the newly formed ad hoc Ministerial Committee on illegal mining and ensure it performs its duties effectively," he said, encouraging journalists to provide regular updates on the committee's progress.

Dwumfour closed his speech by congratulating all nominees and winners at the awards ceremony, praising their hard work and dedication to the profession. He also invited attendees to the upcoming 28th GJA Media Awards, scheduled for September 28, 2024, in Accra, where the country's top journalists will be honoured for their contributions.