By Juliet Aguiar DUGBARTEY
The Director of Communications at the Bank of Ghana (BoG), Bernard Otabil, has cautioned journalists against engaging in propaganda or spinning stories related to the central bank, warning that such practices can undermine investor confidence and adversely impact the national economy.
Speaking at a two-day training workshop for selected journalists from the Western and Western North Regions in Takoradi, Mr. Otabil stressed that in today’s digital age, information spreads rapidly; and attempts to distort facts about the BoG can carry significant economic consequences.
“Spin-doctoring stories about the Bank of Ghana does not only mislead the public but also sends negative signals to investors, ultimately affecting Ghana’s investment drive,” he said.
The workshop forms part of the BoG’s broader efforts to build the capacity of the media in accurately reporting on economic issues, monetary policy decisions and their broader implications. It also aims to strengthen strategic partnerships with the media and enhance journalists’ ability to craft clear, informative narratives around the bank’s operations and objectives.
“Effective communication is central to enhancing the impact of our policies. With management’s support, the Communications Department is committed to creating platforms like this to build and maintain strong media relations,” Mr. Otabil noted.
He reiterated the bank’s commitment to empowering journalists with the tools and knowledge required to deliver impactful, accurate financial reporting, particularly regarding the decisions of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC). “This training initiative is not a one-off. We will continue to provide you with relevant information—because we believe our story is best told through you, the journalists,” he added.
Kofi Assan, Regional Manager of the BoG, echoed similar sentiments, describing journalists as critical stakeholders in disseminating accurate information to the public. “That is why this type of training is so important,” he said.
Desmond Cudjoe, Chairman of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) in the Western Region, commended BoG for the initiative. He said the training would greatly enhance journalists’ capacity to understand, analyse and report effectively on finance-related matters.
