President Akufo-Addo has called on members of the press in Africa to leverage their media platforms to raise awareness on critical global issues, with a focus on climate action, to promote sustainable solutions.
“Climate change poses an existential threat to our planet and our way of life.” Mr. Akufo-Addo said in his remarks at the 3rd African Media Convention in Accra on May 17, 2024.
Stressing the media’s role in giving priority to climate change, he emphasized the crucial role of the media to put in the effort to champion the climate change fight on the continent and give it the needed urgency.
“As the world grapples with the devastating impacts of climate change, he emphasizes the critical role of the media in amplifying the voices of those most affected and often marginalized. It must amplify the voices of those affected by climate change, especially in communities that are often overlooked in international discourse. Environmental sustainability should be at the heart of media practice,” he added.
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According to him, this means not only reporting on climate change but also adopting sustainable practices in media production itself. From reducing carbon footprints to promoting recycling and sustainable energy use. There’s much the media industry can do to lead by example.
He also highlighted the potential dangers of artificial intelligence and the need to control its use. He urged African media outlets to use their influence to educate the public for collective action to address these critical issues.
He stressed the importance of a joint initiative between governments and the media to develop and implement regulations for the growing artificial intelligence industry.
Furthermore, President Akufo-Addo highlighted the media’s vital role in upholding and preserving democratic values and principles, stressing their crucial contribution to the health and sustainability of democratic societies.
He underscored the need for media freedom and the duty of journalists to report with precision, fairness, and respect, upholding the principles of responsible journalism in their reportage.
