Accra: Mr. Samuel Nartey George, the Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, has called for stronger collaboration between the Government, media organisations, and journalists to combat the growing threat of misinformation and disinformation while safeguarding press freedom. He highlighted the dual-edged nature of digital technologies, which have enabled vast information sharing while also blurring the lines between journalism and deliberate falsehoods.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. George made these remarks during the Second Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) World Press Freedom Day Honours Night, an event that gathered journalists, media owners, policymakers, and civil society organisations to celebrate media freedom and honour veteran journalists for their contributions to Ghana's democratic development. He emphasized the need for responsible and ethical journalism, warning against the significant risks misinformation poses to national security, social cohesion, and democratic governance.
Mr. George urged media organisations to invest in fact-checking, editorial standards, and professional development, particularly for younger journalists. He reaffirmed the Government's commitment to maintaining a free and independent media environment, noting Ghana's progress in global media freedom rankings, rising to 39th position out of 180 countries in the 2026 Reporters Without Borders World Press Freedom Index. He also highlighted legislative reforms, including the removal of Section 78 of the Electronic Communications Act and consultations on the proposed Information Integrity and Digital Communications Legislation.
The Minister stressed the importance of digital freedoms alongside traditional press freedoms, describing the internet as 'today's printing press.' He called for collaboration among journalists, government institutions, and citizens to preserve media freedom, promote information integrity, and strengthen democratic governance.
Mr. Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Minority Leader in Parliament, echoed the importance of protecting press freedom and freedom of expression, warning against attempts to suppress journalists. Citing historical examples, he underscored the media's role in promoting peace and democratic stability and urged media practitioners to prioritize truth and accuracy over sensationalism.
The event also recognized the contributions of the Ghana News Agency and other distinguished institutions to press freedom and national progress. The theme of the event, 'Shaping a Future at Peace: Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Development and Security,' underscored the vital role of the media in fostering a well-functioning democracy.