The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has highlighted the complex impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on journalism, describing it as a tool with the potential to both strengthen and undermine the profession.

Speaking at a World Press Freedom Day event held on Friday, May 2, at the Alisa Hotel in Accra, GJA President Albert Kwabena Dwumfour underscored the urgent need for the media fraternity to engage in deliberate conversations about the implications of AI on press freedom and journalistic integrity.

“We find ourselves at the dawn of a new technological revolution—the era of Artificial Intelligence. AI is no longer a futuristic concept; it is rapidly permeating various aspects of our lives, and the media industry is no exception,” he said.

“This transformative technology presents a double-edged sword for journalism. On one hand, AI offers tremendous potential to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of news gathering, processing, and dissemination. AI-powered tools can assist with tasks such as transcribing interviews, analyzing large datasets for investigative reporting, automating the creation of routine news reports, and personalizing news delivery to individual audiences. AI can also play a crucial role in fact-checking and identifying manipulated content, offering a powerful weapon in the fight against disinformation.”

However, Mr. Dwumfour warned that unchecked use of AI could spell trouble for media credibility.

“The increasing sophistication of AI-generated content raises serious concerns about the potential for the mass production of fake media, which can be incredibly difficult to distinguish from authentic content. This poses a significant threat to the credibility of news organizations and could further erode public trust in information,” he noted.

“The AI revolution is a conversation that we need to have as it will continue to impact our work on a daily basis.”

Themed “Reporting in the Brave New World – The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media,” the 2025 celebration served as a platform for reflection, recognition, and renewal of commitment to press freedom in an evolving digital environment.

The GJA president also addressed broader issues affecting the media landscape in Ghana, reiterating the association’s position on media professionalism.

“We shall not countenance attacks on press freedom, but we shall also not condone irresponsible practices in the media,” he said.

Mr. Dwumfour expressed concern over Ghana’s performance in the 2025 World Press Freedom Index released by Reporters Without Borders.

“Ladies and gentlemen, not long ago, Reporters Without Borders released the 2025 World Press Freedom Index, with Ghana slipping down the ranks. Out of 180 countries ranked annually, Ghana dropped from the 50th position with a score of 67.13% in 2024, to 52nd position with a score of 67.71% in 2025,” he stated.

He added: “The worst indicator is security, with Ghana dropping from the 72nd position in 2024 to 86th position in 2025, although it recorded a reduction in score from 82.94% in 2024 to 78.93% in 2025. The details of our performance in this year’s World Press Freedom Index clearly attest to how bad we are doing as a country. It also reinforces the need for us to intensify our efforts at promoting press freedom.”

To honour the legacy of media pioneers, the GJA announced its intention to rename the “Best Radio News Reporter” award after Dr. Charles Wereko Brobby, popularly known as “Tarzan,” who is widely credited for his instrumental role in pioneering private radio broadcasting through Radio Eye.

“We do not only seek to immortalise him,” Mr. Dwumfour explained, “but we believe it is important to form some other means of honouring achievers of our time before they die.”

The evening also saw the celebration of 24 individuals and organisations who have contributed immensely to the media sector’s development. Among the honourees was Mr. Alex Dade, Executive Chairman of the KGL Group, lauded for his consistent support of media initiatives. Former GJA President Ransford Tetteh (Nana Kwaku Dei) and Mr. Peter Martey Agbeko were also acknowledged for their behind-the-scenes roles in advancing the association’s agenda.

Mr. Dwumfour stressed the GJA’s resolve to prioritize journalist welfare through initiatives like the Journalists Support Fund and said the association would make the recognition of media achievers an annual tradition. “It is our intention to make this initiative a permanent feature on the GJA calendar,” he said.

He concluded with a call for unity and commitment from all sectors to uphold media freedom and responsibility in this rapidly evolving technological era. “Let us work together to build a media landscape that is free, vibrant, resilient, innovative, and deeply committed to serving the public interest in this rapidly evolving AI era,” he urged.

“We stand today on the firm shoulders of giants — the pioneering journalists, editors, and media owners who boldly championed the cause of press freedom in Ghana through political upheavals and economic hardships,” he reflected.