By Tilda Acorlor
Sports journalists in Ghana have been urged to prioritise credibility over speed in the evolving digital media landscape.
The call was made by the President of the Sports Writers Association of Ghana, (SWAG), Kwabena Yeboah, during the 8th Anniversary Public Lecture of SWAG Volta, held in Ho.
The lecture, which formed part of activities marking the anniversary of the Volta Regional Chapter, brought together key stakeholders in the media and sports sectors, including government officials, sports administrators, student athletes, and members of the public.
Delivering the keynote address, Mr. Yeboah stressed that credibility must remain the defining standard of modern sports journalism, particularly at a time when digital media has made publishing accessible to all.
He observed that the rise of online platforms has created an environment where “everyone with a smartphone is a publisher”, often at the expense of accuracy and ethical standards.
“The question is no longer who can publish; the question is who can be trusted?” he stated.
Mr Yeboah cautioned journalists against the pressure to be first with breaking news, warning that speed without verification undermines the integrity of the profession
“Speed without verification is not journalism; it is recklessness,” Mr. Yeboah emphasised.
He further outlined five core principles he described as non-negotiable for sports journalists. These include accuracy, adherence to ethical standards, purposeful criticism, commitment to the national interest, and a responsibility to contribute to national development.
Mr. Yeboah praised the contributions of SWAG-Volta, noting that its role has extended beyond reporting sports to actively shaping development within the region.
“Let it be said that SWAG Volta Region did not merely report sport; it shaped it and empowered the socio-economic development of the Volta Region,” he said.
He urged members to raise their standards, deepen their impact, and expand their influence, warning against the pursuit of short-term visibility at the expense of credibility.
“Do not settle for visibility; pursue credibility. Do not chase relevance; build authority,” he added.
The event was chaired by the Volta Regional Chairman of the Ghana Journalists Association, Harrison Kofi Belley, and attracted a wide range of dignitaries.
Among them was the Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, who underscored the importance of sports journalism in promoting youth empowerment, talent development, and economic growth.
He commended SWAG Volta for its sustained contribution to sports reporting and advocacy over the past eight years.
Hon. Gunu noted that sports journalism goes beyond reporting results, describing it as a vital tool for shaping narratives, discovering talent and projecting the region onto the global stage.
“Through your work, athletes are discovered, careers are built, and the passion of our people for sports is sustained,” he said.
Other speakers were the Volta Regional Director of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), Mrs. Roberta Okine Fumador, The Director of the National Sports Authority, (NSA), Philippina Frimpong and Former National Athlete, Godwin Atsu Adukpo.
The lecture was held on the theme “Eight Years of SWAG Volta: The Impact and Development in Sports Journalism” and was also in honour of Mr. Kwabena Yeboah, a seasoned commentator and veteran sports broadcaster.
The anniversary event projected the growing role of credible journalism in strengthening Ghana’s sports sector and national development.
