Accra, May 5, GNA – The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) on Wednesday pledged its support to individuals and countries struggling to provide independent, professional and objective news and information to citizens around the globe.
A release by the Public Affairs Section of the United States of America Embassy in Accra in commemoration of the World Press Freedom Day, said: “We recognize the critical role an independent media plays in the overall development and sustainability of democracy.”
It said a free media was essential for economic growth as companies and investors relied on the free flow of accurate information for investment decision-making.
The release said a free media was required for the eradication of diseases; for the resolution of social conflict and for the development of new methods to educate the youth.
“Print and broadcast media play a critically important role in shaping the lives of youngsters around the world. Training of qualified writers and broadcasters is required so that the young and old alike understand the global implications of local events”, it said. The release said USAID’s efforts to support developing Journalists and broadcasters included training, technical expertise, direct grants for production, media law advice and business management training. It said USAID would continue to support Journalists who take risks to seek the truth and provide citizens with professional and objective information.
“We are proud of those whom we have supported in the past and look forward to the development of free media systems worldwide”, it said.
Source: GhanaWeb
