The Ghana Journalists Association has called on media practitioners to actively promote Ghanaian culture while safeguarding press freedom, as the country marks Heritage Month.
Speaking at a news conference at the Ghana International Press Centre in Accra, GJA President Albert Dwumfour urged journalists and media houses to use their platforms to celebrate Ghana’s rich traditions, languages, cuisine, and identity.
He encouraged Ghanaians to embrace local culture by patronising traditional attire such as kente, fugu, and kaba and slit, as well as local dishes including fufu, banku, kenkey, and tuo zaafi. According to him, the media plays a critical role in shaping national identity and must lead efforts to project Ghana’s heritage to the world.
Mr. Dwumfour also commended media organisations that have already dedicated airtime and editorial content to promoting cultural heritage, urging others to follow suit. He further called for patriotic journalism that fosters unity, responsible citizenship, and national development.
On press freedom, the GJA welcomed moves by the Inspector-General of Police, Christian Tetteh Yohuno, and the Attorney-General, Dominic Ayine, to pursue an out-of-court settlement in the long-running case involving JoyNews journalist Latif Idrissu and the Ghana Police Service.
The Association described the decision as a constructive step toward resolving a case that has become symbolic of concerns about journalist safety and accountability. It expressed hope that the settlement process would deliver closure and strengthen confidence in justice and institutional reforms.
The GJA, however, raised concerns over what it described as increasing intimidation of journalists by law enforcement agencies. It cited recent instances where journalists were invited and interrogated by the Police Criminal Investigations Department over alleged false publications, including attempts to compel disclosure of sources and seizure of working tools.
The Association reiterated its call for the repeal of what it termed “repressive” provisions in the Electronic Communications Act and the Criminal and Other Offences Act, arguing that such laws are often used to harass media practitioners.
On national issues, the GJA also criticised the practice of charging fees for recruitment into the security services, describing it as unfair given the large number of applicants compared to limited vacancies. It commended John Dramani Mahama for directing an expansion of recruitment and urged authorities to ensure transparency and depoliticisation of the process.
The Association further acknowledged the successful organisation of the Ashanti Media Summit in Kumasi and encouraged similar initiatives across the country to strengthen the media landscape.
Mr. Dwumfour announced that the GJA’s 2026 Annual General Meeting will be held on March 31 at the Ghana International Press Centre, urging members in good standing to participate fully.
He reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to promoting media professionalism, protecting journalists, and defending press freedom, while calling on practitioners to serve the public with integrity and patriotism.
