WPFD : Media Urged to have a sharper focus on economic rights of citizens – Hon Kojo Oppong Nkrumah
The Government of Ghana renews its commendation of the media in commemoration of World Press Freedom Day. The occasion’s thirtieth (30th) anniversary is on the International Theme: Shaping a Future of Rights: Freedom of Expression as a driver for all other human rights.
The media has been instrumental over the years in highlighting various rights that require attention for full enjoyment. The work of the media also in highlighting instances of abuse of some rights by sections of society has led to redress in many instances. We urge the media to remain resolute on this path.
The quest to have all citizens fully access their economic rights is yet to achieve full effect, especially as the world faces dim economic forecasts following recent global challenges. While urging the Media in Ghana to keep the spotlight on all human rights, we encourage an even sharper focus on efforts to ensure that the economic rights of citizens are fully actualised. Programs by state and non-state actors to support the Ghanaian people in building back faster after the recent economic challenges should be given deeper attention. We further encourage the media to give more media mileage to content that empowers citizens to fully enjoy their economic rights.
The Ministry of Information renews its commitment to support the media stakeholder groups such as the Ghana Journalists Association, the Private Independent Newspapers Association, the Communication Educators platform, Ghana Independent Broadcasters Association and the National Media Commission to implement Ghana’s Media Support Programs. The Ministry further encourages all other stakeholders including development partners to support the Media Capacity Enhancement Program and the Coordinated Mechanism for the Safety of Journalists as sure instruments to better equip the media to discharge its mandate for our democracy.