The Private Newspapers and Online News Publishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAG) has expressed appreciation to the Government of Ghana for its proposal to establish a National Media Fund.
The Association described the initiative as timely, coming at a period when the media industry is facing escalating operational costs, dwindling advertising revenue, limited access to training opportunities, and sustainability challenges particularly among smaller and privately owned outlets.
PRINPAG noted that these constraints pose a threat to media independence, vibrancy, and long-term viability, making the establishment of the Fund essential.
The Association acknowledged President John Dramani Mahama for his longstanding commitment to media development, recalling that “he first introduced the concept of a national media support mechanism during his first term in office, although its objectives could not be fully realized before the conclusion of that administration in 2016.”
According to PRINPAG, the President’s renewed leadership and dedication to national progress give confidence that the vision he once championed for media advancement will now be realized. The Association stated it remains hopeful that this new effort to activate and implement the Media Development Fund will come to fruition.
While welcoming the proposal, PRINPAG urged government to expedite processes toward the establishment and operationalization of the Fund to ensure timely support for journalists and media institutions nationwide.
To guarantee transparency and independence, PRINPAG proposed that the Fund be anchored on strong governance structures, including a dedicated Secretariat, a Fund Administrator, and an Independent Board of competent and experienced individuals to ensure professional management.
The Association further called on media stakeholders, development partners, civil society organisations, the private sector, and the general public to support the initiative and rally behind efforts to strengthen Ghana’s media ecosystem. It stressed that a resilient and independent media is critical to deepening democracy, enhancing accountability, and advancing national development.
PRINPAG reaffirmed its commitment to working with government and all stakeholders to build a free, vibrant, and sustainable media environment in Ghana.
