The Ghana Journalists Association ( GJA) has praised Ghana’s improved performance in the 2026 World Press Freedom Index as the country marked this year’s World Press Freedom Day.

In a statement issued on May 3, the Association said Ghana moved from 52nd to 39th position globally and ranked 4th in Africa in the latest index published by Reporters Without Borders.

The GJA described the achievement as a reflection of improvements across key indicators used in assessing press freedom around the world.

This year’s World Press Freedom Day was observed under the theme “Shaping a Future at Peace.”

The Association commended journalists, editors, media owners, civil society organisations, regulators and development partners for their efforts in promoting press freedom and responsible journalism in the country.

According to the GJA, the progress recorded demonstrates the impact of sustained advocacy and cooperation among stakeholders in Ghana’s media landscape.

The Association also praised the government and international partners for supporting efforts aimed at protecting media freedom and improving conditions for journalists.

It particularly commended President John Dramani Mahama, whom it described as a proud member of the Association, for his role in supporting improvements in Ghana’s press freedom ranking.

Despite the gains, the GJA said more work remains to be done to address issues such as journalist safety, media sustainability and legal reforms.

The Association called on the Government of Ghana and the Ghana Police Service to ensure that attacks against journalists are properly investigated and perpetrators punished.

It urged authorities to review laws, including parts of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008, which it said are sometimes used to intimidate journalists.

GJA President Albert Dwumfour reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to defending press freedom and promoting professionalism within the media.

“We will continue to speak truth to power, challenge injustices and hold duty-bearers accountable without fear or favour,” he stated.

The Association announced that it will organise a national event later this month to commemorate World Press Freedom Day and honour individuals and institutions that have contributed to media development in Ghana.

Meanwhile, Mr. Dwumfour is leading a delegation to Paris to participate in the centenary congress of the International Federation of Journalists from May 4 to May 7, 2026.

The congress is expected to bring together more than 300 journalists’ unions and associations from around the world to discuss issues affecting the future of journalism, including artificial intelligence, safety, youth participation, gender equality and media sustainability.

By: Jacob Aggrey