Distinguished delegates, Ladies and gentlemen, Good morning,
On behalf of the UNESCO’s Director General, I would like to thank Her Excellency the Chief of Staff for honoring this this occasion with her presence at this 3rd Africa Media Convention.
We regard your presence amidst us not only as an act of honouring an invitation, but also as a gesture of your commitment, and that of the country you lead Ghana, to the principles of media freedom and safety of journalists.
These are the principles that UNESCO is mandated to promote as the UN lead agency on freedom of expression and safety of journalists.
Ghana’s commitment to promoting media freedom is further demonstrated by its membership to the various international coalitions promoting freedom of expression, access to information and safety of journalists. Furthermore, the fact that Ghana will later this year host global celebrations of the International Day for Universal Access to Information, having previously hosted the global cerebrations of the World Press Freedom Day, is a sign that Ghana is a Centre of Gravity on the African continent when it comes to promoting media freedom, access to information and safety of journalists.
Our theme today, “The African Media We Want: Enhancing Freedom, Innovation, and Environmental Sustainability in a Dynamic World,” is particularly resonant. UNESCO views the freedom of expression as a global public good, intricately linked to both the preservation of our planet and the vitality of our democracies. This vision aligns with the urgent need for robust and free journalism that can navigate the complexities of climate change and drive meaningful action.
Africa holds a special place in UNESCO’s agenda, being designated as a priority for the organization. This focus acknowledges the unique challenges and opportunities present on the continent—from advancing education and science to safeguarding cultural heritage and promoting freedom of expression. UNESCO’s initiatives across Africa aim to harness the transformative power of media and communication to foster sustainable development, peace, and democracy.
This year, as emphasized by Ms. Azoulay, the need for media to combat disinformation is critical in what she termed a “super-election year,” where voters’ decisions are pivotal. Reliable, accurate information is the cornerstone of making informed choices, free from the distortions of false narratives and polarization.
Moreover, UNESCO’s efforts extend to protecting journalists, particularly environmental reporters who face increasing threats and violence. A recent study highlighted that 70% of environmental journalists have encountered attacks due to their work, with numerous casualties over the years. In response, UNESCO is launching new initiatives dedicated to enhancing the safety of journalists and expanding media education on environmental issues, ensuring that those at the frontline of reporting are not only protected but also empowered.
As we deliberate over the next few days, let us draw inspiration from UNESCO’s dual commitment to upholding press freedom and addressing the climatic crisis through informed, fearless journalism. It is essential that we continue to build a media landscape that can withstand the pressures of the digital age while championing the principles of sustainability, accuracy, and fairness.
In conclusion, as we strive towards “The African Media We Want”, let us embrace the challenges and opportunities for innovation and collaboration. I would also like to acknowledge the UNESCO staff whose tireless support has been crucial in coordinating this event. Together, we can foster a media environment that not only informs and engages but also protects and respects our diverse voices and our planet.
Last but not least, allow me to extend a heartfelt thank you to our co-hosts, the Government of Ghana, the Ministry of Information of Ghana and the Ghana Journalists Association, and our co-organizer, the African Union Commission. Their dedication and hard work have been pivotal in bringing this event to life. Additionally, our gratitude goes out to all our sponsors and partners, whose support is invaluable in advancing our shared goals
