Ghana has successfully secured the rights to host the Africa Regional Headquarters of the International Fund for Public Interest Media (IFPIM).
This marks a significant milestone in the country’s commitment to supporting press freedom and independence of the media.
Following a competitive bidding process, government has not only provided a dedicated office for the IFPIM headquarters but has also pledged to extend diplomatic courtesies to the international staff operating from the Africa Regional Headquarters, to be established in Accra.
Minister for Information Mr. Kojo Oppong Nkrumah made the announcement together with the French Minister of State for Development and International Partnerships, Chrysoula Zacharopoulou during the Paris Peace Forum in France on Thursday.
The status of the office is expected to mirror that of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) office, showcasing Ghana’s strategic position as a hub for regional initiatives.
The IFPIM, a global coalition supported by governments, philanthropic organizations, and private companies, aims to address structural challenges facing independent journalism in low- and middle-income countries.
The fund seeks to chart a course towards long-term economic resilience for media organizations, contributing to the health and sustainability of democratic societies.
It is dedicated to supporting and strengthening independent journalism globally while addressing challenges faced by media outlets in low- and middle-income countries, promoting press freedom and independence.
Ghanaian Media
Speaking to journalists after the announcement, Mr. Oppong Nkrumah, emphasized the substantial benefits Ghanaian media will derive from IFPIM’s presence.
He said the fund aims to bolster the media landscape by providing resources, expertise, and financial grants.
Mr. Oppong Nkrumah added that the partnership with IFPIM will provide capacity building avenues and technical support for our local media professionals.
The hosting of the Africa Regional Headquarters in Ghana, he reiterated, will support the digital expansion of the Ghanaian media aligning it with the digital evolution of the industry.
Government’s commitment
Mr. Oppong Nkrumah said the government’s decision aligns with broader efforts to support Ghanaian media and improve information integrity, a vital component for the proper functioning of democracy.
He emphasized that the government would provide the necessary infrastructure and diplomatic courtesies to ensure the smooth operation of IFPIM in Ghana.
Mr. Oppong Nkrumah called on other states within the sub-region to enter similar partnerships with IFPIM and to execute programmes that support public interest media because it is a necessity for democracies to thrive and to flourish.
