Ghanaian journalists face a double whammy – rising fuel costs and unreliable power supply – according to the president of their national association.
Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), expressed his deep concern over the negative impact of “dumsor,” the term used for inconsistent electricity supply, during a speech at the World Press Freedom Day event at Koforidua Technical University.
Dwumfour highlighted the damage caused to broadcast equipment due to power outages. This, coupled with the high costs of fuel and generators, creates significant challenges for media houses in Ghana.
He pointed out that these economic factors are reflected in the Reporters Without Borders’ press freedom index, where Ghana’s ranking has declined.
To address this issue, Dwumfour called on the Electricity Company of Ghana to implement a clear and reliable schedule for power cuts. A predictable power supply, he argued, would help to mitigate the economic losses faced by media houses.
“We urge the Electricity Company of Ghana to provide a dependable power schedule,” Dwumfour stressed. “This would safeguard media outlets from financial difficulties that could ultimately damage Ghana’s press freedom reputation.”
