President Mahama plans to restructure GNA and ISD
President John Dramani Mahama has shared his administration’s plans to restructure the Ghana News Agency (GNA) and the Information Services Department (ISD) to enhance their efficiency in disseminating government information to the public.
During a courtesy visit by Madam Esther Ambah Numaba Cobbah, President of the Institute of Public Relations (IPR) Ghana, at the Flagstaff House in Accra, President Mahama discussed the need for reforms.
“One of the key changes is to bring the ISD under the Presidency and modernise it from a civil service entity into a modern organisation capable of guaranteeing the public’s access to information about government activities,” he stated.
Acknowledging advancements in communication technology, he noted, “The era of the cinema van is over. We now have a variety of communication tools. The ISD needs reform to keep up.”
He emphasised that modernising the GNA and ISD is crucial to ensuring they can fulfil their roles effectively, improving information flow to the public.
“Restructuring these institutions will empower them to perform their mandates better,” he added.
President Mahama highlighted that restructuring the ISD would strengthen its ability to serve as a platform for government communication, ensuring that as much information as possible is made available to the public.
He also reaffirmed his commitment to upholding the principles of freedom of expression, as enshrined in Ghana’s 1992 Constitution.
“This provision has been one of the most progressive, ensuring freedom of information and expression, which is vital for communication professionals,” he noted.
Additionally, President Mahama expressed his determination to restore Ghana’s standing regarding media freedom and free expression. “Together, we can restore Ghana’s pride in media freedoms,” he said.
In collaboration with IPR Ghana, President Mahama also discussed plans to secure land for a permanent office complex, similar to the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA).
He mentioned his past contributions to IPR, recalling efforts to improve the country’s position on the Freedom Index.
Madam Cobbah congratulated President Mahama on his election victory and commended his commitment to IPR, including his bus donation.
She assured him of IPR Ghana’s readiness to support communication initiatives whenever necessary.
The Ghana News Agency, founded by Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, plays a crucial role in national development and unity through its mandate to provide truthful and unbiased news, helping to strengthen the nation by ensuring comprehensive information dissemination.