Host mining communities are partners in development, not obstacles – GJA President

Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), has called on mining companies to view communities in mining regions as partners in development rather than obstacles. Dwumfour emphasized that genuine community acceptance can only be achieved through sustained engagement, respect and trust, beyond mere legal agreements and public relations campaigns.

He underscored the importance of treating host communities as key stakeholders whose interests and concerns must be considered in decisions regarding mining operations and local development.

The GJA President emphasized that obtaining regulatory approval is just one aspect of establishing a sustainable relationship with host communities; building a social license is essential. He warned that companies cannot assume communities will accept their operations simply because legal permits have been obtained. Instead, mining businesses must invest in trust-building and demonstrate respect for community interests through their actions, requiring ongoing engagement rather than isolated meetings or image-improving communication campaigns.

Turning to the media's role, Dwumfour stressed that journalists must adhere to the same accountability standards they demand from other institutions. As GJA President, he cautioned journalists to be held to the same scrutiny they demand from government, mining companies and regulators. He outlined four key principles for journalism: truth, accuracy, independence and fairness.

These principles should guide every stage of the reporting process—from gathering information to publishing stories and responding to corrections. Dwumfour emphasized the importance of verifying claims before publication, investigating allegations thoroughly, giving all sides a fair chance to respond, and focusing on evidence rather than speculation or sensational claims.

Highlighting the challenges of modern journalism, Dwumfour urged journalists covering mining to verify claims with documents, community interviews, expert consultations, and allowing companies and individuals sufficient opportunity to respond. He also cautioned against sensationalism for the sake of generating attention and clicks, as inaccurate reporting can have serious consequences, damaging reputations of various stakeholders, including mining companies, government officials, and community leaders.