Journalists’ associations and media leaders from across Africa are set to converge in Accra to examine growing threats to press freedom, journalists’ safety and the sustainability of the media industry.
The high-level Steering Committee meeting of the Federation of African Journalists (FAJ), scheduled for September 17 and 18, will provide a platform for media representatives to discuss challenges affecting journalism across the continent and develop strategies to strengthen the profession.
The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), which is hosting the meeting at the Fiesta Royal Hotel with support from KGL Group, said the discussions had become necessary amid attacks on journalists, restrictions on media freedom and growing economic pressures confronting media organisations.
The meeting will also examine the impact of digital misinformation and rapid technological developments on journalism and freedom of expression.
According to a release signed by GJA President Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, participants will deliberate on journalists’ welfare and safety, professional development, ethical journalism, media sustainability and broader developments shaping the African media landscape.
The FAJ Steering Committee is expected to review the situation across member countries and strengthen continental approaches to protecting journalists’ rights and promoting safer working conditions.
Ghana bids to host FAJ Congress
A major item on the agenda will be the selection of the host country for the sixth FAJ Congress, with Ghana among the countries that have submitted bids to host the continental gathering.
The opening session is expected to bring together government officials, diplomatic representatives, media executives, editors, journalists, former national executives of the GJA and other stakeholders.
The FAJ is the continental body representing journalists’ unions and associations affiliated with the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ).
Established in 2007 and formally launched at its first working congress in Nairobi, Kenya, in 2008, the organisation seeks to provide a unified voice for African journalists while advancing press freedom, freedom of expression and improved working conditions.
The organisation has since advocated journalists’ rights at regional and international levels and supported initiatives aimed at improving professional standards and the safety of journalists.
FAJ operates under a constitution adopted by its congress and is governed by an elected Steering Committee.
The GJA said Ghana’s hosting of the meeting would provide an opportunity for continental media stakeholders to deepen dialogue and pursue collective action towards creating a safer and more sustainable environment for journalism.
FAJ President Omar Faruk Osman is already in Accra engaging key stakeholders ahead of the meeting.
The GJA expressed appreciation to KGL Group for supporting the organisation of the event.
