By Frank Kwame Abbor, GNA
Ho (V/R), April 10, GNA-Mr Kwabena Yeboah, the President of the Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG) has urged journalists to uphold professionalism and credibility in sports reporting.
The call was made at a public lecture organised by the Volta and Oti Chapter of SWAG in Ho to mark the eighth year of its establishment.
The event, held under the theme: “Eight Years of SWAG Volta: The Impact and Development in Sports Journalism,” brought together media practitioners, sports administrators, athletes, and key stakeholders to reflect on progress and future prospects.
Delivering the keynote address, Mr Yeboah described the anniversary as a moment of reflection rather than mere celebration, urging members to assess their relevance and impact.
“Anniversaries must not only celebrate longevity; they must justify existence. We are here to interrogate our present and define our future,” he stated.
He stressed that sports journalism must go beyond reporting scores to actively contribute to national development and the growth of the sports industry.
“Sports journalism is not passive coverage; it is active nation building. If it does not contribute to growth, then it remains incomplete,” he added.
Mr Yeboah cautioned against declining standards in the digital era, where speed often overrides accuracy, and unverified information is widely circulated.
“Speed without verification is not journalism; it is recklessness. Once credibility is lost, no headline can restore it,” he emphasised.
He outlined key principles for practitioners, including accuracy, ethical reporting, credibility, responsibility, and innovation, describing them as non-negotiable standards in modern journalism.
Mr Yeboah also encouraged journalists to embrace digital transformation while maintaining integrity, noting that not everyone with a platform qualifies as a credible journalist.
“Today, everyone can publish, but not everyone can be trusted. Credibility must distinguish the professional from the crowd,” he said.
Mr James Gunu, Volta Regional Minister, highlighted the important role sports played in shaping the national narrative, inspiring young people, and promoting unity.
He emphasised the critical contribution of sports journalism in showcasing opportunities within the sports industry and encouraging youth participation.
He reaffirmed the commitment as a region to promote grassroots sports development and to strengthen partnerships with media institutions and private stakeholders to grow the sports sector.
Mr Gunu commended SWAG Volta for eight years of dedication and impact, particularly in promoting professionalism in sports journalism.
Mr Eric Eli Adzie, Chairman of SWAG Volta/Oti, highlighted the association’s achievements, noting its role in promoting sports and projecting talents in the Volta and Oti Regions.
“We have contributed significantly to giving visibility to talents and supporting sports development in the region,” he stated.
Mr Charles Osei Asibey on his behalf also underscored the importance of sports journalism in shaping national narratives and inspiring the youth.
“Sports journalism is a powerful tool for unity, development and national pride,” he noted.
Other speakers, including Mrs Roberta Okaine-Fumador and Madam Philipina Frimpong, highlighted the link between sports, tourism, and economic growth, calling for stronger collaboration among stakeholders.
The event also featured contributions from former national athlete Mr Godwin Aduko and veteran journalist Mr Tony Bebli, who shared experiences on the evolution of sports journalism in the region.
Mr Daniel Agbogah, Chairman of the Volta Regional Football Association, in a goodwill message, urged stakeholders to support sports journalists to enhance the development of sports.
As part of the celebration, Mr Yeboah was honoured for his immense contribution to sports journalism in Ghana.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah/Linda Asante Agyei