The Global Media Foundation (GLoMeF), a leading media organisation dedicated to promoting press freedom and media development, has initiated a major fundraising campaign to rake in $15 million.

The amount is to finance GLoMeF’s new 5-year strategic plan, which seeks to strengthen its support for independent journalism, media literacy, and journalist’s rights.

The initiative comes at a critical time for media organisations, as press freedom is challenged with unprecedented setbacks in many parts of the world, including Ghana.

Against this backdrop, the 5-year strategic plan further aims to support efforts geared towards protecting journalists, combating disinformation, and empowering communities through media education and advocacy.

The Founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of GLoMeF, Raphael Godlove Ahenu, who disclosed this at Sunyani in the Bono region, indicated that the fundraising campaign would unfold over the coming months, with a series of events planned to engage a broad spectrum of stakeholders.

"We are happy to unveil our new strategic plan, which reflects our unwavering commitment to upholding the principles of a free and independent press,"he stated.

He added, "By securing the necessary funding, we will be able to expand our impact and support media professionals in the face of evolving threats to press freedom”.

Mr Ahenu explained that the 5-year strategic plan contains a comprehensive roadmap to establish regional media support centres, develop innovative digital media literacy resources, and provide journalists at risk with emergency assistance.

The new Country Director of GLoMeF, Clement Boateng, said the foundation has already secured commitments from major donors and philanthropic organisations towards the fundraising campaign.
He stated that GLoMeF plans to leverage its global network of supporters and partners to raise awareness and garner support for the initiative.

"We are calling on individuals, corporations, and institutions who agree with our commitment to press freedom and media development to join us in this journey.

"With the generous support of donors, we can ensure that journalists have the resources and protection they need to continue their crucial work in the face of adversity," Mr Boateng remarked.

He was hopeful that the collective efforts of its supporters would help the foundation achieve its ambitious vision for the next five years.

As the world grapples with unprecedented challenges to media freedom, the Global Media Foundation’s efforts will contribute meaningfully to the resilience of independent journalism and advance the critical role of the media in ensuring informed and empowered societies.