The Minister of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has raised serious concerns over the inadequate budget allocation to his ministry, warning that the GH¢78 million earmarked for the year is grossly insufficient to meet the operational needs of the three major agencies under his supervision.
Speaking passionately on the floor of Parliament on Wednesday, March 19, Kwakye Ofosu emphasized the critical role played by the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC), the Information Services Department (ISD), and the Ghana News Agency (GNA).
According to the Minister, these institutions are central to ensuring the timely dissemination of government information, educating the public, and maintaining media integrity across the nation.
He pointed out that the allocated funds will not allow these agencies to function at full capacity, and could potentially undermine their effectiveness in carrying out their vital duties. Ofosu expressed deep concern that without adequate funding, these institutions would face major operational challenges, which could result in a detrimental impact on the quality of services they provide to the public.
The Minister further outlined that the three agencies collectively employ 2,537 civil servants, whose livelihoods depend on the adequate allocation of funds to their respective institutions.
He stressed that these workers perform essential tasks that benefit the entire country, from informing citizens about government policies to ensuring fair and balanced news coverage.
Particular emphasis was placed on the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC), which, he noted, faces urgent financial needs as it works to expand its services to the six newly created regions of Ghana. Kwakye Ofosu described this as an ambitious undertaking that requires sufficient resources, including funding for infrastructure, equipment, and staff, to ensure successful expansion and coverage.
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