Journalists must move beyond identifying problems to promoting practical solutions — UE Regional Minister
Regional Minister Donatus Akamugri Atanga urges journalists to strengthen solution-oriented reporting, accountability and sustained coverage of development challenges.
Upper East Regional Minister, Donatus Akamugri Atanga, has urged journalists to move beyond merely identifying societal problems and focus on reporting that promotes practical solutions, accountability and development.
Atanga made the call on Friday, September 4, at the launch of the 5th Upper East Regional Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Awards in Bolgatanga.
Speaking on the theme, “Beyond the headlines: The media’s role in promoting WASH for safe motherhood and quality healthcare,” the Regional Minister said journalists must go beyond highlighting challenges by investigating why they exist, identifying those responsible and exploring practical measures to address them.
He encouraged the media to deepen coverage of critical sectors, including health, education, agriculture, infrastructure and local governance, to ensure that issues affecting communities receive sustained attention and lead to meaningful interventions.
Atanga also assured journalists of the Regional Coordinating Council’s commitment to constructive engagement with the media and facilitating access to relevant information.
Meanwhile, Upper East Regional GJA Chairman, Albert Sore, said the awards seek to recognise journalists whose work contributes significantly to the development of the region.
Sore challenged journalists to intensify investigations into water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) challenges in health facilities, follow up on reported gaps and highlight the experiences of people affected by inadequate WASH services.
He said sustained and evidence-based reporting could help draw the attention of duty bearers to challenges confronting health facilities and contribute to improved service delivery.
The GJA Chairman also appealed to institutions, businesses and development partners to support the awards, noting that resources are needed to organise the ceremony and provide plaques and meaningful prizes for deserving award winners.
The 5th Upper East Regional GJA Awards was launched by Regional Minister and is scheduled to take place on October 2, 2026.
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