Redirect your focus to solve societal problems—Affail Monney to journalists

On December 11, 2024, 5:42 PM

Former President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Roland Affail Monney, has encouraged journalists to channel their efforts into solutions for societal problems with the power and influence they wield.

According to him, compulsive obsession with political reporting seemed to have overshadowed solution-oriented journalism, which focuses on potential solutions beyond problems in society.

While acknowledging political reporting as an approach that promotes democracy and encourages accountability, Mr. Monney called for diversified coverage and reporting that ensures a more balanced and accurate representation of society’s challenges and progress.

Launching a book titled, “Beyond The Polished Boots” authored by the Chairperson of the Tema Chapter of the GJA, Dzifa Tetteh, at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), last Thursday, Mr. Monney stated that solution-orientated journalism allows journalists to spotlight areas of societal challenges and present constructive narratives that positively impact everyday lives.

He explained that this approach would foster more constructive public discourse, inspire innovation, and empower communities.

By showcasing successful solutions to local problems in our everyday lives, journalists could inspire governments, organisations, and individuals to replicate or adapt these ideas, leading to broader societal and individual progress.

The President of the Police Ladies Association, Commissioner of Police (COP) Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah, who chaired the book launch, encouraged the public to understand the roles and responsibilities of the police to foster better cooperation and enhance community safety.

With high expectations of the police for public safety, COP Addo-Danquah underscored the need for the public to understand the constraints, risks, and procedures of police work and collaborate by reporting crimes, volunteering information and providing evidence when the need arises, and participating in community policing efforts.

Public support and cooperation in maintaining law and order, crime prevention, and crisis management enable the police to carry out their duties more effectively, urging the public to avoid any acts that tend to create violence, especially during the coming Saturday’s general elections.

*From left to right, Mr. Bosompem, Chief Superintendent Azitariga Rtd, COP Addo-Danquah, Ms Yeboah-Afari, Ms Tetteh and Mr. Monney.* Author of “Beyond The Polished Boots” and Chairperson of the Tema GJA, Dzifa Tetteh, speaking at the event, said, that as a journalist and having advocated for the larger society through reporting, she was inspired by her journalism journey, highlighting the challenges, struggles, and achievements to inspire the next generation and contribute to the broader understanding of the challenges and triumphs of journalism. She said the book seeks to raise awareness about the challenges and risks journalists face to inform the public, providing valuable lessons and showcasing the impact of journalism on society.

The Author Ms Tetteh with the President for the GJA Albert Dwumfour — *The author, Ms Tetteh, with the President for the GJA, Albert Dwumfour*

By sharing insights into her career as a journalist and marriage to a security officer, Ms. Tetteh said the book unravels the nuances of maintaining law and order and the ethical dilemmas, helping the public to understand and appreciate the work of the police and journalists.

She stated that the book highlights their professional growth and achievements, inspires confidence in their skills, and motivates others in their fields to strive for excellence.

Story By Grace Tsotsoo Quaye