MEDIA FOUNDATION FOR WEST AFRICA PUSHES FOR COLLABORATION BETWEEN THE MEDIA AND SECURITY AGENCIES TO ENSURE SAFETY FOR JOURNALISTS

The Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) has raised alarm over the rising attacks on journalists in Ghana, urging stronger collaboration between the media and security agencies to protect press freedom.

This call was made during a Media Security Dialogue held in Tamale, where journalists, security services, and stakeholders gathered to discuss growing threats, including physical and verbal abuse against media professionals.

The dialogue, themed “Media Security Dialogue in Tamale: Strengthening Collaboration Between the Media and Security Agencies in Ghana,” created a platform for journalists to share personal experiences of harassment and confrontations with security personnel in the line of duty.

Speaking at the event, Madame Dora Boamah Mawutor, Director of the Freedom of Expression Program at MFWA, emphasized the urgent need for improved cooperation to curb attacks on journalists.

She noted that such incidents were becoming increasingly frequent and posed a serious threat to Ghana’s democratic credentials.

The forum brought together representatives from security services, media managers, civil society organizations, and academics from the Northern, North East, Savannah, Upper East, and Upper West Regions.

Dr. Gilbert Tietaah, Senior Lecturer at the University of Ghana’s Department of Communication, highlighted that journalist safety is fundamental to transparency and accountable governance. He stressed that the media cannot fulfill its public interest role when operating under fear or intimidation.

Also addressing participants, Mr. Yakubu Abdul Majeed, Northern Regional Chairman of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), called for enhanced safety measures for journalists, especially those working in high-risk environments or covering sensitive issues.

Source:Fiilafmonline/Walkiyatu Issahaku