IN A LANDMARK move to advance gender equality in Ghana’s media space, the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) has officially presented a comprehensive gender strategy document to the Private Newspapers and Online News Publishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAG).
The presentation took place on Tuesday, April 8, during a courtesy visit by a delegation from MFWA to the national executives of PRINPAG. The team, led by Mrs. Rosemond Aryeetey, Project Lead of the initiative, included Mr. Paul Gozo and was warmly received by PRINPAG Vice President Mr. Michael Antwi-Agyei and other key members of the Executive Committee.
The strategy document, a product of a three-year project spearheaded by MFWA in partnership with Canal France International (CFI), outlines practical steps to help media organizations promote gender-sensitive policies and content.
The initiative has engaged a broad spectrum of stakeholders—from journalists and media associations to civil society, academia, and policymakers—across Ghana and Cote d’Ivoire.
According to Mrs. Aryeetey, the document was officially launched two weeks ago and reflects the learnings from a pilot phase rolled out in four media houses. The pilot is currently under evaluation for potential nationwide implementation.
“This strategy goes beyond rhetoric. It offers clear, actionable measures that media houses can adopt to foster inclusive newsroom cultures and equitable content representation,” she noted during the meeting.
PRINPAG’s Vice President, Mr. Antwi-Agyei, welcomed the initiative, commending MFWA for its timely intervention. He reaffirmed the association’s commitment to championing the adoption of the strategy among its members.
“We may have only a few female publishers in our fold currently, but we understand the critical need for gender balance in media. We are determined to ensure this document becomes a living tool in our newsrooms—not just another file collecting dust,” he assured.
Also speaking at the meeting, Executive Secretary Mr. Jeorge Wilson Kingson acknowledged the gender gap within the news publishing space, urging targeted support to encourage women’s participation in media entrepreneurship.
“We need deliberate strategies to get more women into ownership and leadership roles in media. This document provides a foundation we can build on,” he said.
To increase awareness and encourage uptake of the strategy, PRINPAG is considering organizing formal presentations during its member meetings. This, the executives believe, will enhance accessibility and understanding of the strategy’s recommendations.
The dialogue ended on a high note, with both MFWA and PRINPAG agreeing on the importance of sustained collaboration. Plans are in motion to develop mechanisms for monitoring gender representation in content, evaluating newsroom practices, and empowering women-led media outlets.
National Organizer Mr. Emmanuel Opare Gyan added that more support structures are needed to inspire women to lead and innovate in the media sector.
The presentation marks a critical step toward creating a more balanced media ecosystem in Ghana – one that values, supports, and reflects the contributions of both men and women equally.
With the firm commitment of both organizations, the strategy document is poised to become a cornerstone for transformative change across Ghana’s media landscape.
Source: Nationaltyme.com
