Government allocates GH¢10m for journalists’ welfare, training and investigative reporting

Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson has announced an allocation of GH¢10 million to support the welfare and professional development of journalists, as well as strengthen investigative journalism in Ghana.

The allocation, announced as part of the 2027 Budget and the government's New Economy Agenda, is expected to provide support for journalists and contribute to improving the quality of media practice in the country.

Presenting the 2027 budget in Parliament, the Finance Minister said the government had made the provision to support journalists' welfare, build their professional capacity and encourage more investigative reporting.

"We have also allocated GH¢10 million to support journalists' welfare, professional development and investigative reporting," he said.

The allocation comes amid growing calls for improved welfare, better working conditions and stronger professional protection for journalists in Ghana.

The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has been pushing for a more structured approach to addressing the challenges facing media practitioners, including poor remuneration, insecure employment, irregular salary payments and limited opportunities for professional development.

At the 30th GJA Media Awards in Accra on November 7, GJA President Albert Dwumfour disclosed that Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin had assured the Association of Parliament's readiness to support the development of a Private Member's Bill to address the conditions of service of journalists and other media practitioners.