Accra, May 3, GNA – The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has urged stakeholders to sustain the progress made in promoting press freedom and protecting journalists in the country.
In a statement commemorating the 2026 World Press Freedom Day on Sunday, the Association commended Ghana’s improved performance from 52nd to 39th position on the Press Freedom Index, published by Reporters Without Borders.
Ghana ranked Fourth in Africa on the Press Freedom Index, an achievement the GJA attributed to sustained advocacy, constructive engagement and commitment by various partners to defending and promoting media freedom in the country.
“Your collective efforts, often undertaken under challenging conditions, remain vital in promoting truth, accountability and national cohesion,”
“The GJA salutes you and says Ayekoo to your resilience and unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards of journalism in service of the public good,” a statement signed by the GJA General Secretray, Dominic Hlordzi, said.
It called for increased efforts to address challenges including journalist safety, media sustainability and regulatory reforms to further improve Ghana’s standing and strengthen democratic governance.
“The Association urges the Government of Ghana and the leadership of the Ghana Police Service to ensure that all cases of attacks against journalists are promptly, thoroughly and transparently investigated, with perpetrators held accountable to end the culture of impunity,” the statement said.
“At the same time, there is a pressing need to review and repeal provisions within laws such as the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 that are frequently weaponised to intimidate and silence journalists.”
The GJA reiterated its commitment to promoting and defending press freedom and ensuring a safer, more professional and vibrant media landscape in Ghana.
“We will continue to speak truth to power, challenge injustices and hold duty-bearers accountable without fear or favour,” GJA President, Mr. Albert Dwumfour, was quoted as saying.
This year’s World Press Freedom Day, marked on May 3, is themed: “Shaping a Future at Peace,” reaffirmed freedom of expression as tool for shaping resilient, inclusive and peaceful information societies.
Later this month, the Association would organise a national event to mark the Day and honour journalists and institutions whose contributions have advanced media development and democratic accountability in Ghana.
GNA
Edited by Agnes Boye-Doe