The Minister urged the media in the region to prioritize sensitivity to people’s feelings and avoid sensationalism in their news reporting.
He emphasized the importance of the press as the Fourth Estate of the Realm, responsible for upholding democracy and defending the public interest. The Minister highlighted the need for journalists to offer a complete, fair, and accurate account of news events, with the intention to inform and entertain the general public.
In Ghana, the role of the media in ensuring peace and security is considered extremely important. This is particularly relevant in light of the rising threats of terrorism from neighboring West African countries and ongoing land and tribal conflicts, such as the Bawku conflict.
The minister emphasized the added responsibility of journalists in the Upper East Region to contribute to the maintenance of peace and security in Ghana. He urged the Chairman and executives of the GJA to support the government of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo in these efforts across the country.
During his speech, he emphasized the significant influence of the media on national security and referred to the United Nations Regional Declaration, which emphasizes the importance of media freedom in fulfilling their crucial role.
In addition, Linda Asante Agyei, the National Vice President of the GJA, recognized the relevance of the chosen theme for the awards, given the detrimental impact of conflicts on the development of the Upper East Region. She urged the media in the region to actively contribute to resolving these conflicts.
“It is important for media practitioners and institutions to recognize the cardinal purpose of their mandate, which cuts human development and growth. The days of poor journalism, which lured the media into peddling information that only strengthened the fire of conflicts, have long given way to the current era of peace journalism”.
William Jalulah, the Chairman of the Upper East Regional GJA, expressed appreciation towards the media for their coverage of conflicts in the Upper East region. He acknowledged that their responsible reporting has played a significant role in pacifying tensions and averting further escalation of the situation.
Mr. Jalulah encouraged the media to maintain their responsibility in carrying out their duties and emphasized the adherence to ethical principles in their reporting. He highlighted the significance of accuracy and balance in news coverage, as well as the avoidance of sensationalism and the dissemination of false information.
The Upper East Regional GJA Awards, held on October 6, 2023, at GNAT Hall in Bolgatanga, celebrated outstanding achievements in journalism. A total of 19 awards were presented, with 17 awards given to 10 deserving individual journalists and 2 awards bestowed upon 2 radio stations. Additionally, five individuals were recognized for their significant contributions to the media industry and the region’s development.
The primary sponsor of the event was WaterAid Ghana, through their SHARE project, in collaboration with Right to Play, FAWE, and FHI 360. These organizations received sponsorship from Global Affairs Canada. The Silas Amoah Foundation, Bolgatanga Municipal Assembly, Afrikids Ghana, Earl International Group (Ghana) Gold Mining Ltd, MTN Ghana, Endswell Pharmacy, Youth Harvest Foundation, VRA/NEDCO, Participatory Action for Rural Development Alternatives (PARDA), and the Widows and Orphans Movement also generously supported.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana
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