BoG Governor Johnson Asiama says professional journalism is vital in fighting digital misinformation

Bank of Ghana Governor, Dr Johnson Pandit Asiama, has described professional journalism as “society’s compass”, saying it remains essential in helping citizens navigate the growing challenges of the digital age.

Speaking at the 30th Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Media Awards in Accra on Saturday, November 7, 2026, he said technological advancements had transformed how information is created, distributed and consumed, presenting both opportunities and challenges for society.

Dr Asiama noted that while digital platforms had expanded opportunities for citizens to participate in public discussions and share information, they had also contributed to the spread of misinformation, disinformation, online abuse, misleading data and hate speech.

“Although digital platforms have created unprecedented opportunities for citizens to get involved and share information, they have also brought significant challenges, including misinformation, disinformation, online abuse, misleading data and hate speech,” he said.

The Governor said professional journalism plays a critical role in helping citizens distinguish facts from falsehood, evidence from speculation and informed analysis from sensationalism.

He described journalists as guardians of public discourse whose work contributes to social cohesion, informed debate and the protection of democratic principles.

“As guardians of public discourse, journalists are essential for building social unity, encouraging well-informed discussions, and safeguarding democratic principles,” he stated.

Dr Asiama also highlighted the media's role in making complex economic and financial issues accessible to the public.

He cited monetary policy decisions, inflation trends, financial sector reforms, exchange rate movements and digital financial innovations as issues that require accurate and balanced reporting to help citizens understand developments affecting their lives.

He said effective journalism translates such technical subjects into information that the public can understand and use.

The 30th GJA Media Awards were held under the theme, “Celebrating Excellence, Advancing Media Freedom and Combating Hate Speech in the Digital Age”.

The theme highlights the need to protect press freedom while promoting responsible journalism in an increasingly digital information environment.

The Bank of Ghana has also pledged to continue supporting initiatives that recognise excellence in economic and financial reporting.