Ghana has made significant strides in press freedom, climbing 12 places on the Reporters Without Borders’ World Press Freedom Index, from 62nd to 50th globally.
This achievement was announced by the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) President, Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, during the commemoration of World Press Freedom Day on Friday, May 3, 2024, in Koforidua, Eastern region.
According to Mr Dwumfour, this improvement was a result of the GJA’s aggressive actions to defend journalistic freedom and promote press freedom in the country.
He praised the efforts of journalists, media houses, and civil society organisations (CSOs) for their contributions to this achievement.
He noted that Ghana’s improved ranking demonstrates the country’s commitment to press freedom and the crucial role of a free press in promoting democracy and sustainable development.
In this regard, he urged journalists to continue promoting press freedom and holding those in power accountable, despite the challenges and attacks they face.
However, Mr Dwumfour condemned recent attacks on journalists and media houses, including the petrol bomb attack on Class FM in Accra.
While commending the Ghana Police Service for their efforts in investigating these attacks and urged them to expedite their investigations and prosecute the perpetrators, he warned that failure to do so would embolden others to commit such crimes, posing a great danger to national peace, especially as the country prepares for Election 2024.
The GJA highlighted the importance of a free press in promoting sustainable development and environmental protection.
Mr Dwumfour, therefore, called on journalists to resume their campaign against illegal small-scale mining (galamsey) and focus on other environmental issues like sanitation and climate change.
In conclusion, the GJA urged all Ghanaians to appreciate the vital role of journalists and the media in promoting democracy and sustainable development. He also reminded everyone about the upcoming Africa Media Convention scheduled for May 15-17, 2024, at the Accra International Conference Centre.