Ghana has once again demonstrated its commitment to media freedom and democratic governance as President John Dramani Mahama announced that the country has become the first African nation to make a financial contribution to the International Fund for Public Interest Media.
The President made the announcement at the High-level International Conference on Information Integrity and Independent Media held in Paris, France, on October 29, 2025. The gesture, according to President Mahama, underscores Ghana’s firm belief that independent journalism and reliable information are indispensable public goods in today’s digital age.
“The time has come for all of us to translate our shared ideals into tangible action, to demonstrate genuine commitment to supporting public interest media and safeguarding the integrity of information. Together, we must win, and we will win, the global war against misinformation and disinformation,”
— President John Mahama
Ghana Leads in Promoting Information Integrity
President Mahama expressed satisfaction that the Paris conference produced tangible and historic outcomes. Key among them are:
- Endorsement of the Paris Declaration on Multilateral Action for Information Integrity and Independent Media, reaffirming global commitment to free, independent, and pluralistic information ecosystems.
- Renewed political and financial commitments to replenish the International Fund for Public Interest Media, targeting €130 million between 2026 and 2028 to support independent journalism worldwide.
- Establishment of a Consultative Committee to improve coordination among states, civil society organizations, and the Forum for Information and Democracy.
- A shared global understanding that defending truth must be a sustained and collective effort beyond national and institutional borders.
Ghana Joins the Partnership for Information and Democracy
In a landmark move, President Mahama also revealed that Ghana has officially assumed full membership in the Partnership for Information and Democracy, further entrenching the nation’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and open governance.
“This decision has been officially communicated through the appropriate diplomatic channels, affirming Ghana’s unwavering commitment to the principles of transparency, accountability, and open governance,” President Mahama stated.
“Our landmark decision sends a clear message to the international community, that Ghana remains steadfast in advancing the frontiers of freedom, upholding the rule of law, and serving as a model nation in promoting democracy and good governance.”
A Model for Africa and Beyond
With this bold step, Ghana cements its position as a continental leader in media freedom and democratic reform, serving as an inspiration to other African nations to support the integrity of public information systems.
The Mahama administration’s renewed dedication to information integrity and independent journalism reflects a broader vision, to ensure that Africa remains an active contributor to global efforts combating misinformation, disinformation, and fake news.
