President Mahama announces 10million cedis seed funding for Media Development Fund

President John Dramani Mahama has announced a GH¢10 million allocation in the 2027 national budget as seed funding for the Media Development Fund.

The initiative is expected to support journalists’ welfare, professional development, investigative journalism, digital literacy and safety training.

President Mahama made the announcement at the 30th Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Media Awards held at the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel in Accra.

FLASHBACK
He recalled that he announced plans to reactivate the Media Development Fund at the 29th GJA Media Awards in Kumasi last year, expressing commitment to strengthening the capacity and welfare of journalists.

President Mahama said the GH¢10 million allocation would provide the initial funding for the initiative, while government would work with the GJA to mobilise additional resources from corporate institutions.

He specifically mentioned KGL Group and the Bank of Ghana among institutions he intended to approach for contributions.

The President assured journalists that government would continue engaging the GJA and other stakeholders to translate the commitment into practical support, while respecting the editorial independence of the media.

He also called on experienced journalists, particularly editors, to mentor younger reporters and provide them with opportunities to develop practical newsroom skills.

President Mahama further urged media organisations to strengthen investigative reporting and broaden their coverage beyond partisan political discussions to include issues affecting ordinary Ghanaians.

BUDGET
The 2027 national budget, expected to be presented to Parliament on November 12, will provide further details of the government’s financial commitments.

The Media Development Fund is intended to strengthen journalism in Ghana by improving professional standards, protecting journalists and supporting the development of a more resilient media industry.