Ken Ashigbey: Ghana TV Licenses Issued 'Like Confetti'

• Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, CEO of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, criticized the current issuance of Ghana TV licenses, stating it reflects deeper systemic issues in the media industry.
• He argued that media funding alone cannot solve the industry's sustainability problems and called for broader systemic changes.
• President John Mahama announced GH¢10 million in seed funding for the reactivated Ghana Media Development Fund in the 2027 Budget.
• Ashigbey supported a proposal by the National Media Commission to track professional journalism through an index.
• He emphasized that reforms must enable commercial media businesses to thrive, generate revenue, and provide fair employment.

He emphasized that merely injecting capital into the sector, such as through media funding initiatives, would be insufficient to resolve the fundamental sustainability challenges facing media entities.

Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, recently voiced strong concerns regarding the current state of Ghana's media industry, particularly criticizing the indiscriminate issuance of television licenses. Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express, Ashigbey asserted that the practice of distributing TV licenses "like confetti" is indicative of deeper systemic issues that require urgent attention. He emphasized that merely injecting capital into the sector, such as through media funding initiatives, would be insufficient to resolve the fundamental sustainability challenges facing media entities. His remarks were made during a broader discussion concerning financial support for journalists and a forthcoming legislative proposal aimed at improving working conditions within the industry. Ashigbey also highlighted that limitations placed on media organizations' operational reach ultimately undermine their capacity to function effectively.

The ongoing dialogue around media viability includes a proposed bill designed to address critical aspects of journalists' welfare, including job security, fair remuneration, and overall working conditions. In parallel, President John Mahama announced a significant financial commitment in the 2027 Budget: GH¢10 million in seed funding for the reactivated Ghana Media Development Fund. This fund is earmarked to support various initiatives, such as journalist welfare programs, training, investigative reporting, digital literacy, and safety protocols. While acknowledging the importance of this fund, Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey cautioned against media organizations viewing it as their sole source of income, stressing that it should form part of a more comprehensive strategy for industry development. He further endorsed a proposal from George Sarpong, the National Media Commission Executive Secretary, to establish an index for tracking professional journalism, aiming to differentiate genuine practitioners from those merely claiming the title.

Ashigbey articulated a vision for a robust media sector, advocating for funding access to be contingent on a recipient's demonstrated commitment to public interest and national development. He suggested that support should actively reward responsible journalistic practices and bolster self-regulation to counter unprofessional conduct. To ensure the longevity and integrity of the Ghana Media Development Fund, he proposed a lean, technology-supported administrative structure, ideally managed by two or three individuals, overseen by a diverse board. This framework, he argued, would facilitate transparent distribution of resources and attract additional investment. Ultimately, Dr. Ashigbey underscored that any reforms must cultivate an environment where entrepreneurs can successfully operate commercial media businesses, thereby creating employment, ensuring fair compensation, and contributing to tax revenues. He concluded that while the proposed Ghana media regulation bill is a step forward, it alone cannot guarantee a responsible and sustainable media landscape.

Lawyers advising media entities in Ghana should note the ongoing debate and proposed bill concerning media funding, professional standards, and TV license issuance. This signals potential regulatory changes impacting operational licenses, compliance requirements, and access to government-backed funding, necessitating a review of current practices and future strategic planning for media clients.

Source: Original reporting via Abubakar Ibrahim