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The High Commissioner of Canada to Ghana, Her Excellency Myriam Montrat, has declared a free and independent press a non-negotiable pillar of a healthy democracy, directly addressing Ghana’s media leaders at a reception in Accra.
“There is no strong democracy without a strong, independent media,” Montrat stated unequivocally, welcoming editors and journalists to the Canadian High Commissioner’s residence on Wednesday evening.
She praised Ghana’s “vibrant press, radio debates and digital storytellers” as central to the country’s democratic life but acknowledged the significant headwinds they face.
“We know that Ghana’s media landscape faces some challenges, from financial constraints and concerns about safety, to polarization, misinformation and disinformation,” the High Commissioner said, setting a tone of solidarity and concern.
Positioning her mission as a willing partner, Montrat expressed a desire to hear directly from media practitioners about these realities and to understand “how Ghana’s media sector can be supported to remain strong, resilient, independent, and responsible.”
The address positioned a robust media as a key component of Canada’s broader partnership with Ghana, which is rooted in advancing shared democratic values. Montrat highlighted Canada’s support for initiatives that bolster inclusive governance and human rights through its foreign policy programming, including the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives.
This support has previously extended to “community radio projects countering hate speech,” a direct investment in the media ecosystem’s capacity to promote peace and accountability.
Concluding her remarks, the High Commissioner moved beyond diplomatic platitudes, framing the media not as mere observers but as active participants in the Canada-Ghana relationship.
“You are not just observers of the Canada-Ghana partnership; you are part of it,” she stated. “Ghana’s media landscape is a cornerstone of this country’s democracy and an essential partner for all of us who care about transparency, accountability and informed public debate.”
She pledged to work more closely with Ghanaian journalists to share information and connect them with on-the-ground voices, while also seeking frank insights on sustaining quality journalism, protecting journalist safety, and navigating political and economic pressures.
The evening culminated in an open invitation for media leaders to suggest “where partners like Canada can best add value,” signalling a potential new chapter of practical support for Ghana’s Fourth Estate.
The post Canada to Ghana: “No strong democracy without a strong, independent media” appeared first on The Herald ghana.
