The head of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, has urged the Minister of Information to spearhead efforts in securing better conditions of service for journalists across the country.
During the GJA Annual Dinner held on December 21, 2023, Dwumfour emphasized the pivotal role played by Ghanaian journalists in national development. He highlighted the dismal state of their remuneration, stating that this issue affects both private and state-owned media practitioners.
Drawing attention to a parallel call made by the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), Dwumfour reiterated the demand for media organizations to provide adequate wages to cushion journalists amidst the significant inflationary pressures impacting economies worldwide.
He raised concerns about the reliance of journalists on “soli,” or ‘brown envelopes,’ to meet basic needs due to inadequate wages. This reliance, he emphasized, compromises media independence and freedom.
Dwumfour underscored the gravity of the situation, asserting that the working conditions of journalists must be taken seriously as it directly impacts their performance. He called upon the Minister of Information to take a leading role in addressing these pressing issues.