In a heartfelt farewell address delivered during a staff durbar at the Ministry of Information premises on Friday, February 16, 2024, the former Minister for Information, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, urged the ministry’s staff to remain steadfast in safeguarding and expanding the media support initiatives established during his tenure.
Mr. Oppong Nkrumah, who recently transitioned to the role of Minister for Works and Housing as part of President Akufo-Addo’s major ministerial shake-up, emphasized the importance of continuity and collaboration in ensuring the sustainability of media support programs. He encouraged the staff to work closely with the incoming Minister, Fatimatu Abubakar, to build upon the foundation laid and to further enhance these crucial initiatives.
“Do not turn your back on our media support programs. We need to support the public communications ecosystem continuously. It is necessary if we want the media and others to excel in our democracy,” he said.
Highlighting the significance of programs such as the Media Capacity Enhancement Programme (MCEP) and the Coordinated Mechanism for the Safety of Journalists (CMSJ), Mr. Oppong Nkrumah underscored their vital role in fortifying Ghana’s media landscape. He commended these initiatives for their success in providing comprehensive training to journalists nationwide and ensuring the safety and security of media practitioners.
Acknowledging the challenges faced in securing cooperation from various stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society organizations, and the private sector, Mr. Oppong Nkrumah urged collective action to address these obstacles. He stressed the importance of ongoing efforts to garner support and collaboration, affirming his confidence in eventual success.
Furthermore, Mr. Oppong Nkrumah emphasized the significance of upholding high research standards to provide accurate and valuable feedback to the government. He emphasized the importance of leveraging the ministry’s existing research department to enhance governance and meet the needs of the Ghanaian populace effectively.
Expressing gratitude to the ministry’s staff for their dedication and contributions during his tenure, Mr. Oppong Nkrumah concluded his address by soliciting their continued support in fulfilling the ministry’s vital responsibilities. His passionate plea for collaboration and perseverance serves as a testament to his commitment to advancing Ghana’s media landscape and promoting good governance for the benefit of all citizens.
