The Ghana Journalists Association engaged with the Ghana News Agency to discuss enhancements to the Agency’s operations and address challenges related to funding and resources. GJA President Albert Kwabena Dwumfour emphasized the importance of a well-supported GNA for democracy and media freedom, while GNA General Manager Albert Kofi Owusu called for government support to improve sustainability.
The leadership of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) convened with representatives of the Ghana News Agency (GNA) on March 12, 2023, to explore strategies for enhancing the Agency’s operations amidst existing challenges. The meeting, hosted at the GNA headquarters in Accra, highlighted the crucial role of a well-resourced national news agency in fostering credible journalism and effective news dissemination in Ghana.
Mr. Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, President of the GJA, expressed the Association’s dedication to advocating for the interests of media institutions. He reiterated that the prosperity of these institutions significantly affects journalists’ welfare and the integrity of public information. Furthermore, he acknowledged the GNA’s invaluable contribution to journalism in the country and its historical association with the GJA’s leadership.
During the discussion, Mr. Dwumfour reaffirmed the GJA’s commitment to promoting media freedom and ensuring the independence of journalistic entities. He emphasized the necessity of a robust and well-supported GNA for sustaining democracy and fostering national development. He also assured journalists of the GJA’s ongoing efforts to enhance their welfare, including improved remuneration and working conditions.
Mr. Albert Kofi Owusu, General Manager of the GNA, urged the government to recapitalize the Agency for improved efficiency and long-term sustainability. He remarked that while the GNA possesses the potential for high productivity, years of insufficient funding have stymied its growth. The issue of inadequate salaries has also led to significant talent loss to other media organizations.
Despite confronting these obstacles, Mr. Owusu affirmed the GNA’s commitment to professional ethics in journalism, noting the Agency’s maintained credibility. He emphasized that GNA’s reputation remains strong, as evidenced by the journalists’ unyielding efforts to uphold professionalism. He stated, “In spite of the challenges, you see the journalists always doing their best to maintain high professionalism. So, hardly will you have somebody take a GNA story and question its credibility.”
Established in March 1957, the Ghana News Agency stands as the nation’s premier state-owned wire service, essential for gathering and disseminating news locally and internationally. It continues to provide a backbone for credible journalism across Ghana, ensuring comprehensive coverage through its correspondents stationed in every region. The GJA delegation included key figures such as Mr. Kofi Yeboah, Mrs. Audrey Dekalu, and Mr. Dominic Hlordzi. The GNA team comprised various directors and departmental heads with significant roles in editorial and administration.
In conclusion, the meeting between the GJA and GNA serves as a vital step towards strengthening the national news agency’s operations, addressing its funding challenges, and advocating for the welfare of journalists. With reinforced support, the GNA can enhance its role in promoting credible journalism and contributing to national development. Both organizations remain committed to upholding professionalism and ensuring the integrity of news dissemination in Ghana.
Original Source: gna.org.gh
