A delegation of Ethiopian media professionals, along with representatives from the Ethiopian Media Authority (EMA), Ethiopian Media Council (EMC), and the International Media Support, on November 22, 2023 visited Ghana as part of a study mission. Their main objective was to gather learnings from the Right to Information Commission of Ghana and understand how the Commission has sustained its independence and regulatory framework. The Ethiopian delegation seeks to apply these learnings to support ongoing media reforms in Ethiopia and ensure that the country’s legal and policy framework aligns with international human rights law.
Led by Yonatan Terfaye and Solomon Goshus, the delegation was warmly received by the Management of the Right to Information Commission of Ghana consisting of the Executive Secretary, Yaw Sarpong Boateng Esq., Stephen Owusu Esq., Vincent Opoku, Kate Swanzy, Vivian Tetteh and Mercylina Hagan. The Executive Secretary, Yaw Sarpong Boateng Esq., briefed the Ethiopian visitors on the workings of the Commission and how it promotes transparency and accountability in Public Institutions. He emphasized the Commission’s ability to handle cases independently, without any external interferences.
The Executive Secretary acknowledged that the Commission may collaborate with other organizations or seek sponsorship for its programs. However, he assured the delegation that the Commission always remains fair and unbiased when making rulings on cases that appear before it.
The visit provided an opportunity for the Ethiopian media professionals to gain insights into Ghana’s successful efforts in promoting and protecting the right to information. The delegation members, including Deressa Terefe, Konjit Tamrat, Tamrat Dejee, Abiyo Ifekonnen, and Tamerai Katlu, expressed their gratitude for the warm welcome and shared their commitment to implementing similar measures in Ethiopia.
The Executive Secretary of the Right to Information Commission of Ghana, Yaw Sarpong Boateng Esq., presented copies of the Right to Information Act, 2019 (Act 989) and the Commission’s 2021 and 2022 annual reports to give them more insight into the various activities of the Commission. Yonatan receiving the items on behalf of the delegation expressed appreciation for the kind gesture.
The visit was seen as a positive step towards strengthening media reforms in Ethiopia. By studying the experience of the Right to Information Commission of Ghana, the delegation aims to improve Ethiopia’s media regulatory framework, enhance transparency, and ensure the protection of journalists’ rights.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Kwabena Nyarko Abronoma
