GJA must widen engagement with bloggers, digital creators on ethical journalism – Julius Debrah

Chief of Staff Dr. Julius Debrah has urged the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) to strengthen its engagement with bloggers and digital content creators to ensure professional ethics keep pace with the changing media landscape.

He said digital platforms had created opportunities for young people, expanded participation in media and amplified previously overlooked voices, but stressed that credibility and professional responsibility must remain central to journalism.

“The task, then, is not to close the gates. It is to widen the circle of professional responsibility,” Dr. Debrah said.
He was speaking at the launch of the 30th GJA Media Awards and the inauguration of the Awards Committee at the Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City in Accra on Wednesday, October 7, 2026.

Dr. Debrah called for greater support for new media and blogging, urging digital creators to uphold the same ethical standards expected of traditional newsroom journalists.

“A professional may work from a large newsroom or from a phone and a laptop. In both cases, credibility is built in the same way: verify before publishing, distinguish fact from allegation, respect privacy and human dignity, declare conflicts, and correct mistakes openly,” he said.

He urged the GJA to lead efforts to promote responsible digital journalism through training, mentorship and stronger engagement with content creators.

“Technology has made this duty even more important,” he said, noting that a mobile phone could now serve as a newsroom, radio station, television studio, and printing press.

Dr. Debrah also cautioned against allowing the pressure to publish quickly to undermine accuracy and fairness, stressing that the media must adapt to technological advances without abandoning professional standards.

The 30th GJA Media Awards seek to recognise excellence in Ghanaian journalism.

Dr. Debrah said the awards should also inspire young reporters, including those working in smaller communities, to pursue credible and responsible journalism.