Asunafo North MP calls on NMC, GJA to tackle AI challenges in media ethics

Haruna Mohammed, the MP for Asunafo North in Ahafo Region, has urged the National Media Commission (NMC) and the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) to update media ethics guidelines. He wants these updates to address challenges from Artificial Intelligence (AI).

He spoke at a World Press Freedom Day event on Sunday in Goaso. Mr. Mohammed noted that AI can improve news delivery and fact-checking. However, it also threatens the credibility of news organizations, especially in rural areas like Ahafo. Here, internet access is only 45%, and digital literacy is low.

“AI’s impact on press freedom raises concerns,” he stated. “While AI enhances news delivery, it risks spreading misinformation.”

World Press Freedom Day is celebrated globally on May 3 each year. The United Nations established it in 1993 to honor courageous journalism and promote press freedom. The theme for 2025 focuses on AI's impact on press freedom and media independence.

Mr. Mohammed praised Ghana’s improved press freedom ranking. Ghana rose to 50th globally in 2025 with a score of 67.71%. This was an increase from 52nd earlier that year, according to the World Press Freedom Index by Reporters Without Borders.

However, he expressed concern about journalist safety, as Ghana ranks 86th globally for this issue. He highlighted that Ahafo faces amplified challenges due to its rural population—60% according to the Ghana Statistical Service.

The region has a population of 564,668 people who rely heavily on local media outlets for information and education. These include Nananom FM, Success FM, Genesis FM, Rejoice FM, Anapua FM, High Radio, and others.

Mr. Mohammed commended regional correspondents and journalists in Asunafo North for their valuable contributions to public information. The constituency has a population of 124,685 residents based on the latest census.

He called for more investment in media literacy programs in Ahafo. This would help citizens access credible information and support freedoms in the age of AI.

He referenced provisions in the national budget aimed at media development. These include funding for digital literacy initiatives and training journalists on using AI tools.

“These initiatives build on previous government efforts,” he said. They helped improve Ghana’s press freedom ranking from 62nd in 2023 to 50th in 2024 through programs like the Coordinated Mechanism for the Safety of Journalists (CMSJ).