By Seli Baisie
Media and Communication Expert, Professor Kwame Karikari, has issued a strong call to action to journalists, media owners, and stakeholders to take a more active role in advocating for the passage of Ghana’s long-awaited Broadcasting Bill.
Speaking at a high-level consultation meeting organised by UNESCO Ghana in Accra on Thursday, June 5, 2025, Prof Karikari expressed disappointment over the media’s lack of urgency in pushing for the bill, which has stalled for years.
He criticised what he described as media silence on policy matters that directly affect their work. “The media don’t cover themselves, whether it’s the rights of journalists or policy issues,” he said. “If every morning, every radio station gave just two minutes of airtime to campaign for the Broadcasting Bill, the government would be forced to act.”
The event, held at the Alisa Hotel in Accra, brought together key media stakeholders, including the National Communications Authority (NCA), Ghana Independent Broadcasters Association (GIBA), Ghana Community Radio Network (GCRN), and the National Media Commission (NMC).
The consultation focused on ensuring the new legislation recognises and strengthens community media as a key pillar of Ghana’s democratic and development agenda.
Prof Karikari also mentioned that media owners often prioritise business interests over collective action on critical issues. “Because they are all businesses that bring in money for them, they won’t push,” he noted. “But this bill is essential for creating a fair and inclusive media environment.”
The Broadcasting Bill has been pending for years, with civil society and media advocates highlighting its importance in regulating content, safeguarding public interest, and supporting community media development.
