Govt encourages journalists to prioritize the coverage of climate change-related issues
The government has issued a call to journalists to give top priority to covering climate change-related issues, stressing the importance of heightened awareness and advocacy for environmental preservation.
Speaking on behalf of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo at the 3rd African Media Convention in Accra on Thursday, May 16, Chief of Staff Akosua Frema Osei-Opare urged journalists to take a leading role in highlighting the impact of human activities on the environment and promoting sustainable practices.
“We as Africans and the media in particular have a special duty to reflect on the exercise of journalism and freedom of expression amid the global environmental crisis. It is noteworthy that climate change denials have become increasingly untenable in the face of escalating environmental catastrophes occasioned by human activities.”
Chairperson of the AMC Steering Committee, Churchill Otieno, underscored the vital role of courageous and innovative journalism in overcoming censorship, harassment, and misinformation.
He paid tribute to journalists who hold power accountable and advocate for justice and democracy.
Addressing the convention, Ghana Journalists Association President Albert Dwumfuor highlighted Ghana’s progress on the World Press Freedom Index as a result of collaborative efforts between the government and journalists.
He stressed the need for continued protection of journalists and credible coverage as the country approaches the December elections.
The Information Minister-Designate, Fatimatu Abubakar, announced the government’s plans to collaborate with social media influencers to counter misinformation and disinformation.
Emphasizing the importance of media literacy programs, Abubakar stated that these initiatives aim to empower individuals to discern reliable information from falsehoods.
” To achieve this aim, social media influencers with a wide-reaching impact on various platforms play a pivotal role in amplifying the importance of media literacy. By leveraging that influence, we aim to reach a broader audience in stealing various values uncritical thinking and source evaluations in the hearts and minds of citizens.”
