By Vivian Amoah
The Bank of Ghana has called on journalists to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and accuracy in reporting, stressing that responsible journalism is crucial to maintaining economic stability and public confidence.
Speaking at the World Press Freedom Honours Night organised by the Ghana Journalists Association in Accra, Matilda Asante Asiedu said the media plays a vital role in national development and democratic governance.
She acknowledged Ghana’s improved standing in the latest World Press Freedom Index, where the country moved from 52nd to 39th position, but warned that misinformation, disinformation and declining public trust continue to threaten the media landscape.
Mrs. Asante Asiedu emphasized that credibility is the media’s most valuable asset, noting that the loss of public trust can undermine both the influence and financial sustainability of media organisations.
She said the Bank of Ghana depends on the media to help explain complex monetary policies and economic developments to the public. To strengthen economic reporting, she highlighted several initiatives undertaken by the central bank, including journalist training programmes, enhanced transparency in monetary policy decisions, a Regional Press Corps, dedicated communication platforms and the introduction of the Economic and Financial Journalist of the Year Award in partnership with the GJA.
Touching on developments in the foreign exchange market, the Deputy Governor urged journalists to provide context when reporting on fluctuations in the value of the cedi, warning that sensational reporting could trigger panic and market volatility.
She reiterated that maintaining currency stability is a shared responsibility involving policymakers, businesses, households and the media, and called for continued collaboration to support Ghana’s economic growth and development.
Mrs. Asante Asiedu reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to prudent monetary policies and expressed confidence that a strong partnership between the media and public institutions would help build trust and advance national development.
