BoG calls on media to promote responsible reporting in economic reset
26th January 2026
The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has appealed to journalists and media proprietors to play a constructive role in the ongoing economic reset by ensuring their reporting is accurate, fair and responsible.
The appeal was delivered by the Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr Johnson Asiama, at a two-day residential capacity-building workshop organised by the Private Newspapers and Online News Publishers’ Association of Ghana (PRINPAG), with support from the BoG. The programme took place at Solikope in the Ada East District.
The workshop seeks to enhance the financial and economic knowledge of editors and publishers, while strengthening the media’s ability to analyse and explain complex economic developments to the public.
Speaking on behalf of the Governor, Dr Francis Yao Kumah, an Advisor to the Governor, noted that Ghana began 2026 on a stronger macroeconomic footing.
He said inflation dropped significantly from 23.8 per cent in December 2024 to 5.4 per cent by December 2025, adding that the foreign exchange market had also shown signs of stability.
Dr Kumah disclosed that gross international reserves had reached US$13.9 billion, providing import cover for about 5.7 months.
He explained that rebuilding the economy involved not only policy changes but also a reset of expectations, institutions and behaviour, stressing that the media had a central role in shaping public perception and understanding.
“Our expectation is not blind compliance, but responsible journalism, anchored in accuracy, balance and proper context,” he said, assuring participants of the Bank’s continued openness and engagement with the media.
Dr Kumah cautioned that monetary and financial policy issues were often highly technical, and that inaccurate or poorly contextualised reporting could undermine public confidence and distort expectations.
According to him, a knowledgeable and responsible media was essential in curbing misinformation and supporting overall economic stability.
Touching on the Bank’s focus for 2026, Dr Kumah said policy direction would centre on consolidation and discipline. He outlined four key priorities: reforms in the foreign exchange and money markets; strengthening payment systems and digital finance; preventive supervision with a focus on governance and early risk detection; and clear, data-driven communication of policy decisions.
He encouraged journalists to deepen their understanding of economic matters and maintain high standards of integrity and accountability, warning that partial or misleading reporting could fuel uncertainty, particularly in the foreign exchange market. He advised media practitioners to rely on the Bank’s official platforms for verification.
Dr Kumah also announced plans to deepen media engagement through expanded training programmes, the introduction of a regular Editors’ and Producers’ Forum, and the establishment of the Governor’s “Economic and Financial Story of the Year” Award.
He explained that the award would give the winning journalist the opportunity to attend the International Monetary Fund and World Bank Meetings.
He added that the Bank’s communications department would continue to support newsrooms with briefings, clarifications and access to official data.
Speaking at the event, the Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, described the media as a pillar of democracy and a vital tool for holding governments accountable.
He noted that while Ghana’s media environment remained vibrant, some people continued to view the media as a nuisance.
The minister revealed that President John Mahama had directed that a meeting be held between media practitioners and security agencies to address reported cases of harassment and brutality against journalists.
He urged media organisations to remain innovative and principled, while assuring them of the government’s commitment to supporting the private media sector.
For his part, the Executive Secretary of PRINPAG, Jeorge Wilson Kingson, said the workshop was particularly relevant given the prevailing economic situation.
He said discussions would focus on key areas such as monetary policy, fiscal reforms, debt management, digital finance, and the long-term sustainability of media businesses in the aftermath of debt restructuring.
Mr Kingson added that the training formed part of a wider strategy to position PRINPAG members as informed, credible and influential contributors to Ghana’s national development.