Stop looking down on new media practitioners as if they don’t matter – New Media President

Eugene Osafo Nkansah, President of the New Media Association, has urged political leaders and lawmakers to stop marginalising new media practitioners. He argues that bloggers, influencers and content creators are crucial in shaping public discussions, breaking news and setting agendas, yet they are often overlooked in policy conversations.

Speaking at a Joy Prime dialogue, Nkansah emphasized the need for political leaders to acknowledge and involve new media practitioners in promoting responsible communication and national development. He criticized their perception of new media practitioners as unprofessional individuals, often seen merely using their phones, and called for their inclusion in policy-making processes through training and capacity building.

Nkansah also highlighted the inconsistent treatment of new media practitioners by public figures, noting how some invite them to private events for payment while dismissing them at public gatherings. He urged politicians to be part of discussions to address insults and abusive exchanges in politics, given their influence on public debate and supporter conduct.