Press Freedom Day: The media is an 'invaluable ally' in combating COVID-19 - Oppong Nkrumah

The Government has recognised the media as an "invaluable ally" in the fight against COVID-19 pandemic and would strive to make the media and broadcasting space more productive in the country.

In a statement signed and issued by Information Minister, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah on Sunday, May 3, to mark this year's World Press Freedom Day, said the media plays a significant role by providing factual information to the public on the respiratory disease.

This year's celebration is on the theme, "Journalism without Fear or Favour" and encouraged media practitioners to be fearless in their work to better the lots of the people.

The UNESCO Director-General in a statement said: "At a time when we are mired in worry and uncertainty because of the COVID-19 pandemic, free information is essential to helping us face, understand, think about and overcome this crisis".

It said the Akufo-Addo's administration has been working closely with the media and other stakeholders in disseminating information and facilitating preventive measures and etiquettes against COVID-19.

"We must consider the vital information in this solution; informing the public means giving everyone knowledge of the means of combating the illness by adopting appropriate practice".

The government expressed profound gratitude to the Ghanaian media for their sacrifices over the years and, hoped, together, we can defeat the pandemic within the shortest possible time.

Meanwhile, Mr Roland Affail Money, the President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), in an interview with the media, urged the government to fast-track investigation into the horrendous murder of Ahmed Suale, a member of the "Tiger Eye" Team, that produced an investigative piece on football corruption in Ghana and other African countries and bring the perpetrator (s) to book.

He urged journalists to make an inventory and take a reflective look at their work over the years, and ensure the requisite adjustment to improve public perceptions about the media.

The celebration, usually marked with symposia, at the International Press Centre in Accra, would be marked at the GBC studios through a virtual platform due to the COVID-19 pandemic.