Media critical to public understanding of economic policy – BoG Governor

The Governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), Dr. Johnson Pandit Asiama, has underscored the importance of responsible journalism in helping the public understand economic policies and financial developments.

He said accurate, balanced and accessible reporting on monetary policy, inflation, exchange rate movements and financial sector reforms was essential to explaining decisions that directly affect livelihoods and the wider economy.

Speaking at the 30th Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Awards, Dr. Asiama noted that professional journalism helps distinguish facts from speculation and promotes informed public discourse.

The Governor described the media as an important partner in the Bank of Ghana’s efforts to improve public understanding of economic and financial issues.

He observed that communication had become one of the central responsibilities of modern central banks, adding that monetary and financial policies were more effective when citizens understood their objectives and implications.

According to him, transparent communication and sustained engagement with journalists were therefore necessary to build public trust and strengthen confidence in the financial system.

Dr. Asiama also reaffirmed the Bank of Ghana’s commitment to supporting initiatives that recognise excellence in economic and financial journalism.

He said credible reporting contributes to accountability, improves public understanding of policy decisions and supports national development.

“It is in recognition of this important contribution that the Bank of Ghana established the Governor’s Economic and Financial Story of the Year Award. Our objective is simple – to invest in the development of journalists who can continue to elevate the quality of economic and financial reporting in Ghana,” he added.

The Governor’s remarks highlight the growing importance of effective central bank communication, particularly as economic policy decisions increasingly influence businesses, households, investors and the broader financial sector.