GJA pushes for bill to establish minimum wage for journalists

The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) is advocating for a private member’s bill to be introduced into parliament, aiming to raise the minimum wage for journalists and improve their overall working conditions. The GJA's president, Albert Dwumfour, stated that his organization is working in tandem with parliament to draft a bill that would establish a basic minimum wage for both privately and publicly owned media outlets across the country.

Discussions have been ongoing with the Speaker of Parliament and parliament's leadership to secure a private member bill addressing the economic conditions of journalists in Ghana. It is intended to ensure that journalists receive a basic minimum wage and to bolster the overall conditions of those working in the media. Dwumfour expressed deep concern over the current service conditions faced by journalists in Ghana, highlighting issues such as low pay, job insecurity, and insufficient working tools, which could adversely affect the quality of journalism.

He emphasized that many journalists are economically vulnerable, making it harder for them to resist pressure or temptation. Dwumfour asserted that improving working conditions is crucial not only for the welfare of journalists but also for preserving professional integrity, media independence, and national security. He argued that demanding excellence and professionalism from journalists should be accompanied by fair remuneration and better working conditions.

"We cannot continue to demand excellence from journalists while ignoring the economic realities they face. Poor remuneration, job insecurity, inadequate working tools, limited opportunities for professional development, and challenging working conditions can all undermine the quality of journalism and expose journalists to undue pressure," Dwumfour explained.

He revealed that the GJA is actively engaging with various stakeholders, including media owners, employers, regulators, government institutions, and other partners, to discuss ways to enhance journalists' welfare and working conditions. "This requires constructive dialogue with media owners, employers, regulators, government institutions, and other partners.

The GJA will continue to improve the conditions for journalists while encouraging them to demonstrate professionalism, responsibility, and commitment to excellence," Dwumfour concluded.