Blue Skies Products Ghana Ltd has urged the Ghanaian media to play a more deliberate role in highlighting businesses that are contributing positively to national development.
The call was made by Alistair Djimatey, Head of Corporate Affairs and Foundation at Blue Skies, during a media tour of the company’s production facility. The tour formed part of activities marking World Press Freedom Day 2025 in Ghana.
The event was organised by the UK-Ghana Chamber of Commerce in collaboration with the Ghana Journalists Association and the Institute of Financial and Economic Journalists.
Speaking on the global theme, “Shaping a World at Peace,” Mr Djimatey encouraged journalists to balance their reporting by focusing not only on challenges but also on businesses making meaningful contributions.
“Too often, the media narrative focuses on what is going wrong. But there are many businesses doing the right things—creating jobs, supporting communities, and maintaining high standards. These are the stories that also deserve to be told,” he said.
Promoting peace through responsible business
Mr Djimatey noted that Blue Skies’ operations align with the theme by supporting livelihoods and fostering inclusive economic growth. He explained that the company’s “adding value at source” model—processing fresh fruits locally rather than exporting raw produce—helps reduce inequality and promote stability.
According to him, employment plays a critical role in maintaining peace. At peak production periods, the company employs up to 5,000 workers, providing income for thousands of households across surrounding communities.
He also highlighted environmental sustainability efforts, including initiatives to reduce plastic use in farming and a commitment to achieving net-zero emissions. These efforts, he said, contribute to climate stability, which is closely linked to long-term peace.
Media and industry partnership
Representatives from both the GJA and IFEJ welcomed the call, reaffirming their commitment to promoting responsible journalism and supporting local industries.
Suleiman Mustapha, National Organising Secretary of the GJA, pledged the association’s support for advocacy efforts aimed at creating a more enabling business environment.
“We will stand by you at all times and help advance your advocacy,” he said, noting the critical role responsible businesses play in job creation and tax contributions.
Similarly, Roger Agana, Acting President of IFEJ, emphasised the role of financial journalists in amplifying businesses that demonstrate transparency and local value creation.
“As financial and economic journalists, we see it as our responsibility to highlight companies that are creating value locally. Blue Skies is a strong example,” he stated.
Challenges and opportunities
While showcasing its successes, Blue Skies also outlined challenges affecting the sector, including high energy costs, land encroachment, and tax policies that group natural fruit juices with sugary drinks.
Despite these challenges, the company continues to expand internationally, supplying major European retailers such as Tesco and Marks & Spencer, demonstrating the global competitiveness of Ghanaian products.
The company has also introduced initiatives like the “Farmer of the Year” competition and a nationwide school farming programme to encourage youth participation in agriculture.
Strengthening collaboration
The tour underscored the importance of collaboration between the media and private sector in driving economic growth and national development. It also opened avenues for further dialogue on how businesses can support a free and independent media landscape.
The UK-Ghana Chamber of Commerce, which facilitated the tour, reiterated its role in promoting trade and strengthening partnerships between Ghana and the United Kingdom.
As Ghana marked World Press Freedom Day, stakeholders emphasised that responsible journalism and ethical business practices remain key pillars in building an informed, inclusive, and peaceful society.
