GJA Engages GNA to Enhance Media Operations and Address Challenges in Ghana

The GJA met with the GNA to address operational challenges and discuss strengthening media in Ghana. GJA President Albert Kwabena Dwumfour emphasized media advocacy’s importance for journalism quality and public welfare. GNA’s General Manager, Albert Kofi Owusu, called for increased government funding to enhance GNA’s operation and sustain talent. Both emphasized the necessity of a credible media for democracy.

On March 12, the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) convened with the Ghana News Agency (GNA) to explore ways to enhance the operations of the Agency and address existing challenges. The meeting, hosted at the GNA headquarters in Accra, highlighted the significance of a well-resourced national news agency for supporting journalism and ensuring the dissemination of credible news across Ghana.

Mr. Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, the President of the GJA, affirmed the Association’s dedication to advocating for media institutions, emphasizing that their achievements directly influence journalists’ welfare and public information quality. He praised the GNA’s contributions to journalism in Ghana, noting many of its journalists have historically played vital roles within the Association.

The GJA President reiterated the Association’s commitment to media freedom and journalistic independence, stating that a robust GNA is crucial for the advancement of the nation’s democracy and development. He assured fellow journalists that the GJA will persist in promoting their welfare, including better remuneration and working conditions.

Mr. Albert Kofi Owusu, General Manager of GNA, urged the Government to recapitalize the Agency to bolster its efficiency and sustainability. Highlighting the Agency’s potential productivity, he pointed out that years of insufficient funding have severely constrained its operations, leading to high attrition rates as talented journalists depart for better opportunities.

Despite these hurdles, Mr. Owusu emphasized the GNA’s commitment to professionalism and ethical journalism, maintaining that the credibility of GNA stories remains intact. 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 is the country’s first and only state-owned wire service, playing a pivotal role in news gathering and dissemination for local and international audiences. Over the years, it has been a cornerstone of credible journalism, providing news content to media houses nationwide, supported by correspondents in all regions to cover national events and developments.

The GJA delegation included Mr. Kofi Yeboah, General Secretary; Mrs. Audrey Dekalu, National Treasurer; and Mr. Dominic Hlordzi, Organising Secretary. Representing GNA were Mrs. Beatrice Asamani Savage, Director of Editorial; Mr. Joseph Baffoe, Director of Administration; Mr. Norbert Asenso, Business Development Manager; and several Deputy News Editors, IT Head, and Accounts Head.

The recent engagement between the Ghana Journalists Association and the Ghana News Agency underscores the commitment of both bodies to bolster the operations of the media in Ghana. The discussions highlighted the challenges faced by the GNA and the importance of a well-resourced national news agency. Continued advocacy for journalists’ welfare and the necessary government support can lead to enhanced efficiency and sustainability, fortifying democracy and national development in Ghana.

Original Source: gna.org.gh