Government has promised to enhance the salaries and working conditions of journalists. This commitment, announced by Minister of State for Government Communications Felix Kwakye Ofosu on behalf of President John Mahama, came during the Ghana Journalists Association’s (GJA) celebration of the 2025 World Press Freedom Day and Honours Night in Accra on Friday, May 2.

Under the theme, “Celebrating the Champions of Press Freedom and Ghana’s Media Growth: Building a Resilient Media in the AI Era,” the event underscored the growing influence of artificial intelligence in the field.

Minister Kwakye Ofosu emphasized that ensuring fair labor practices and better working environments is crucial for a robust media landscape.

He stated that the government intends to implement policy reforms aimed at fostering sustainability, safety, and innovation within the media sector, directly addressing the challenges faced by journalists in their daily work.

Addressing the critical issue of journalist safety, Minister Kwakye Ofosu acknowledged Ghana’s past decline in global press freedom rankings due to attacks and intimidation. He reassured media professionals of the government’s unwavering dedication to protecting them and upholding their constitutional rights.

He specifically mentioned the unresolved murder of Ahmed Suale, reiterating the government’s resolve to bring the perpetrators to justice and prevent future impunity against journalists.

Minister Kwakye Ofosu also highlighted the government’s ongoing investments in building a resilient media ecosystem, including fair regulation, support for ethical journalism, and enhanced professional development.

He noted that the passage of the Right to Information Act and ongoing institutional reforms have significantly improved access to credible information, strengthening democracy and public engagement.

The GJA event celebrated the significant contributions of distinguished journalists and media practitioners, including past GJA Presidents Ambassador Kabral Blay-Amihere, Mrs Gifty Afenyi-Dadzie, and Ms Ajoa Yeboah-Afari, alongside Dr Charles Wereko-Brobby, Mr Kwesi Pratt Jnr., Mr Ben Ephson, and Madam Elizabeth Ohene.

Minister Kwakye Ofosu concluded by urging collaboration among all stakeholders to safeguard press freedom in Ghana.

Source:GNA