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President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has called on media practitioners across Africa to address the growing issue of misinformation and its impact on the media landscape. He emphasized that this effort is essential to maintaining the social contract between the media and the public, highlighting the media’s significant power and responsibility in ensuring accurate and objective reporting.
Speaking at the 3rd African Media Convention on the theme “Enhancing Freedom, Innovation, and Environmental Sustainability in a Dynamic Media Landscape” on May 17, 2024, in Accra, President Akufo-Addo noted that the African media is at a pivotal point, facing unprecedented challenges and opportunities in the digital age. He stressed the critical role of the media not only as a guardian of free expression but also as a catalyst for sustainable development and innovation.
President Akufo-Addo pointed out that while press freedom is fundamental to the growth and development of democratic societies in Africa, it also carries the responsibility to inform, enlighten, and mobilize society towards common goals. He underscored the necessity for the media to uphold accuracy, integrity, and ethical standards that respect the truth and dignity of all individuals.
Reflecting on Ghana’s progress, he noted the transformative shift towards greater media freedom over the past decades. He recalled his role as Attorney General under President John Agyekum Kufuor, where he led the repeal of the Criminal Libel Law in 2001. This repeal, he said, significantly advanced Ghanaian media, promoting a robust and critical media culture and enhancing public accountability.
Additionally, President Akufo-Addo highlighted the enactment of the Right to Information (RTI) Act under his administration, which previous governments had failed to pass. He described the RTI Act as a milestone in Ghana’s democratic journey, empowering journalists, improving the quality of reporting, and fostering a culture of transparency.
The President also called for intensified efforts to combat climate change, urging media practitioners to use their platforms to amplify the voices of those affected, particularly in overlooked communities. He advocated for environmental sustainability to be integral to media practice, encouraging the adoption of sustainable practices in media production, such as reducing carbon footprints and promoting recycling and sustainable energy use.
President Akufo-Addo’s speech underscored the vital role of the media in fostering democracy, accountability, and sustainability, urging continued vigilance and commitment to these principles.
Source:Omanghana.com
