Ghana’s journey towards a comprehensive legislative framework for its broadcasting sector has been a long and intricate one.
The Bill was drafted in 2019 in response to public demand for a law to regulate the broadcasting space, which has faced issues like unprofessional interests, fake miracle workers, and the spread of misinformation.
About The Bill
The bill aims to provide a well-defined structure for broadcasting services, regulated by the National Media Commission (NMC) and the National Communications Authority (NCA), aligning with the constitutional provisions that safeguard media freedom and responsibility.
Ghana’s Information Minister Designate Fatimatu Abubakar revealed that the draft broadcasting bill is ready and will be laid before Parliament soon.
What They’re Saying
Information Minister Designate Fatimatu Abubakar stated, “I am aware that many are concerned about our continuous low performance when it comes to economic indicator which is used by Reporters Without Borders. It is in this light that the President and the former Minister of Information Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, lobbied for Ghana to host the office of the International Fund for Public Interest Media so that the Ghanaian media can leverage on it proximity to seek support.”
Why It Matters
The Broadcasting Bill matters for several reasons. Firstly, it promises to bring clarity and order to the broadcasting space in Ghana. With the proliferation of media outlets, there has been a pressing need for regulations that ensure content quality, promote ethical standards, and protect consumer interests.
The bill is expected to address these issues, thereby enhancing the credibility and professionalism of the media sector.
Secondly, the bill is seen as a tool to safeguard the independence of the media while ensuring accountability. By setting clear guidelines on ownership, funding, and operations, it seeks to prevent undue influence and conflicts of interest that could compromise journalistic integrity.
Moreover, the bill has the potential to sanitize the airwaves, which have sometimes been cluttered with content that does not meet the highest standards of public taste and decency. This is particularly important in an era where misinformation can spread rapidly, affecting public opinion and national security.
Zoom In
The government’s commitment to laying the bill before Parliament has been welcomed by various stakeholders, including media professionals and civil society organizations. The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has been vocal in calling for the bill’s passage, highlighting its importance in enhancing the media’s role in governance and development.
The bill also reflects Ghana’s dedication to improving the working conditions and safety of journalists. Training programs and engagements with security agencies and the judiciary are steps that have been taken to ensure that media personnel can work without fear of harassment or violence.
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