Empowering Journalists as Economic Storytellers, Bank of Ghana Decentralizes Media Training to Bridge Policy-Public Gap

The two-day initiative, part of a broader campaign to transform economic reporting, underscores the central bank’s drive to turn journalists into pivotal narrators of Ghana’s economic stability journey.  

Speaking at the opening session, Mr. Bernard Otabil, Director of Communications at the BoG, emphasized the critical role of journalists in bridging the gap between the central bank and the public. “Communication remains central to the success of our policies. We rely on the media to translate complex economic concepts into clear, impactful narratives for citizens,” he stated.

Mr. Otabil clarified that the training was not designed to “enhance interviewing skills” or redefine journalism fundamentals but to equip reporters with the tools to accurately convey the objectives and implications of the Bank’s monetary policies. “Our goal is to empower you to navigate the intricate world of economics and finance, ensuring the public understands how policies like the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) decisions affect their lives,” he added.  

The BoG holds MPC meetings every two months, followed by media engagements. Historically, post-MPC training programs were Accra-centric, but the Bank has now prioritized decentralizing these workshops to ensure broader inclusivity. “Trust and integrity are the currency we issue,” Mr. Otabil remarked, underscoring the BoG’s commitment to transparency and its role as a pillar of Ghana’s economic stability.  

Strengthening Regional Media Expertise

Mr. Kofi Assan, Western Regional Manager of the BoG, echoed the need for continuous learning, noting that refreshed knowledge on financial matters would enable journalists to produce “more effective, nuanced reporting.” Meanwhile, Mr. Desmond Cudjoe, Regional Chairman of the Ghana Journalist Association (GJA), highlighted the media’s responsibility as a conduit between institutions and the public. “When the MPC adjusts the policy rate, citizens depend on journalists to explain how this impacts small businesses or savings. The media cannot fulfil this duty without adequate understanding,” he said.  

Mr. Cudjoe acknowledged challenges faced by journalists, including limited resources, and praised the BoG for providing capacity-building opportunities. “Such initiatives are invaluable. We pledge to collaborate closely with the Bank to elevate economic reporting standards,” he added.  

The workshop forms part of the BoG’s broader strategy to cultivate a well-informed media corps capable of demystifying fiscal and monetary policies. Similar sessions have previously been held in two other regions, with plans for further expansions anticipated.  

By prioritizing regional engagement, the Bank of Ghana aims to ensure that accurate, accessible economic reporting reaches all corners of the nation, reinforcing public trust in its mandate to safeguard Ghana’s financial stability.

Source: Nana Esi Brew Monney

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Space FM.