By: Ruth Serwaa Asare
The Head of UNESCO Ghana, Mr. Edmond Moukala, has proposed that the historic premises of the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) be considered for designation as a World Heritage Site, recognising its vital role in Africa’s liberation and media history.
Speaking at the launch of the UNESCO–GBC training workshop at the GBC premises, Mr. Moukala described the GBC compound as “a landmark place” deeply rooted in Africa’s struggle for independence and freedom of expression.
“We are not just in an ordinary premises where we are coming for training. This is a heritage. This is a landmark place. From the UNESCO perspective, this place represents history and the independence of Africa,” he said.
Mr. Moukala revealed that discussions were already underway with Ghana’s Ministry of Culture to begin the process of securing the designation, noting that such recognition would serve as a tribute to the pioneering journalists and broadcasters who amplified Africa’s voice during the fight for independence. “I already said to my team, as we go back, we will start looking at how this place can become a World Heritage Site. This is all justice and fairness. We talk about reparation; we need also to give credit and credibility. Those are instruments that really make Africa,” he added.
He explained that the GBC premises, through its broadcasts, inspired movements across the continent and contributed to the independence of countries such as Congo, Mozambique, South Africa, and Namibia. “This is where it all started. Media from Congo, DRC, and other parts of Africa will not only come to see, but to understand where it started, what was invested, and how broadcasting from this very place awakened the continent,” he emphasized.
Mr. Moukala also highlighted UNESCO’s continued commitment to building a resilient and ethical media ecosystem. He said the ongoing collaboration with GBC was aligned with the UN Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity, aimed at strengthening media freedom and transparency.
He urged journalists to uphold the values of trust, ethics, and accountability while adapting to the rapidly changing media landscape shaped by digital transformation. “It is a challenge to remain credible and sustainable, and an opportunity to redefine your relevance in an increasingly digital age,” he said. “But there is no other relevance than going into your roots, understanding who we are, and telling our own stories.”
Mr. Moukala concluded by expressing optimism that Ghana would continue to play a leading role in championing African narratives and preserving the continent’s media heritage. “We will try to do justice to these premises and to the people who invested their lifetime and energy in waking Africa up,” he stated. “Ghana still holds great things for us in the future.”
