Ghanaian Times: The Media and Ghana’s fight against COVID-19

It is no secret that one of the major ways to deal with a crisis is the provision of accurate information.

Accurate and updated information is among the most important factors in finding solutions in extraordinary and crisis situations.

Clear and precise information arms the people with basic knowledge and the ‘do’s and don’ts that will help to minimize the impact of the crisis on individuals, families and the society as a whole.

The role of media in any crisis cannot be overlooked. It can have a negative role in a crisis by increasing its scope or play a positive role and help solve the crisis.

This is why the Ghanaian Times finds President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s call on the media to adhere to truth and accuracy when reporting on the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic timely and appropriate.

In an interaction with the National Media Commission (NMC) and media leaders at the Jubilee House, the President said the slightest misinformation and misinterpretation can lead to serious consequences.

“It is important that the facts be accurate because if it isn’t, it will generate a certain amount of uncertainty and fear in the society,” he said.

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, therefore, commended the media for partnering the government to educate and inform the public on issues related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The media has been, for us in government, an invaluable ally. An invaluable ally on two fronts; one, in helping to get the education and information out to the citizenry of our country about this new menace to the progress of the human race,” he said.

The appropriateness of the President’s remarks affirms the ever increasing reach and influence of the Ghanaian media in today’s society.

The media facilitates access to information for policymakers, managers and citizens alike and increases the speed with which new information is gathered, accumulated and distributed, further increasing its role in managing situations including the current COVID-19 pandemic.

Ghana, just like the rest of the world, finds itself in a situation where the public depends on the media for information and education.

It is in this vein that the media is required to engage in an organized effort to control the public emotions and opinion with a positive attitude.

In the absence of a responsible media with a positive attitude, even the best efforts of the government and relevant authorities would not have the best possible impact on the people.

We are not by any means doubting the capabilities and integrity of Ghanaian journalists or media practitioners who have for years worked to promote good governance, democracy, human rights and accountability, among others in the country.

However, we want the President’s admonition to remind us of our solemn responsibilities as the country battles an enemy that threatens our very survival.