Stories and facts
The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), established in 1949, serves as the umbrella organization representing all journalists in Ghana. Registered as a professional association, it is a significant entity on the board of the National Media Commission.
With its mission to achieve higher professional standards, promote press freedom, and foster solidarity among journalists both locally and internationally, the GJA organizes educational programs, workshops, seminars, and lectures to advance media development.
The current president, Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, has been proactive in addressing issues affecting the journalism profession. On July 18, 2023, he delivered a speech at the Ghana International Press Center in Accra, highlighting the troubling rise in threats and attacks against journalists during their duties.
He also announced the introduction of the "See Something, Say Something to a Journalist" campaign, designed to encourage citizens to report suspicious activities to journalists, supporting the work of security agencies.
In May 2021, the GJA, alongside the Ghana Independent Broadcasters Association and the Private Newspaper Printers Association of Ghana, called on the National Security to apologize to Citi FM and Citi TV following allegations of assault and maltreatment of journalist Caleb Kudah and an invasion of the media house.
This incident underscored the association's commitment to defending press freedom and ensuring the safety of its members.
The GJA operates under a Code of Ethics, adopted on July 27, 1994, in Sunyani, which guides its members in maintaining the highest standards of ethical journalism.
The code emphasizes accuracy, fairness, and integrity, urging journalists to avoid plagiarism, respect privacy, and adhere to social responsibility.
It also calls for the protection of confidential sources, the correction of inaccuracies, and a clear distinction between facts and opinions in reporting.
Moreover, the code discourages sensationalism, respects embargoes, and upholds the rights of vulnerable groups, such as victims of sexual assault and minors.
The GJA recognizes the media's role as the fourth estate of the realm, emphasizing that journalists should act responsibly without infringing on individual and societal rights.
This commitment is reflected in the articles of the Code of Ethics, which address issues such as social responsibility, professional integrity, suppression of news, and respect for human dignity.
Notable members of the GJA include Nana Aba Anamoah, General Manager of GHOne TV and Starr FM; Audrey Gadzekpo, a respected media practitioner; Dzifa Bampoh, Senior Editor at 3FM and TV3; and other distinguished journalists such as Georgina Ama Ankumah, Maltiti Sayida Sadick, and Della Russel Ocloo.
These individuals have made significant contributions to the Ghanaian media landscape.
The GJA remains steadfast in its mission to protect the interests of journalists, advocate for press freedom, and ensure ethical and professional standards within the media industry.
Its leadership and members continue to play a crucial role in shaping the media environment in Ghana.
