The Acting Director of the Information Services Department (ISD), Dr. Winnifred Nafisah Mahama, has called on State Public Relations Officers (PROs), to uphold integrity and be proactive in combating information disorders, especially as elections approach.
She also urged the PROs to prioritise the dissemination of authentic information over the manipulation of narratives.
Dr. Mahama made this call at the 2024 Public Relations Officers’ Mid-Year Review Summit in Accra on Friday.
She stated, “With the wave of information disorders, PROs must put in extra effort to maintain our core values. Our focus should be on delivering authentic information, without resorting to spin or propaganda.”
Highlighting the challenges of misinformation, Dr. Mahama pointed out the risks of fabricating information, adding, “Once you tell a lie, you have to keep covering it with more lies. Providing accurate information from the start is crucial to avoid these pitfalls.”
Reflecting on the ISD’s achievements and future goals, she expressed confidence in the Department’s capabilities.
“Our team possesses the necessary qualifications and dedication to perform exceptionally. As we review our progress for the first half of the year, we prepare to tackle upcoming challenges and continue making significant contributions.”
Dr Mahama further noted that the ongoing ISD retooling aimed at enhancing transparency and combating misinformation would soon produce tangible results across various sectors.
On her part, the Head of the Public Relations Coordinating Division (PRCD) of the Department, Mrs. Ethel Codjoe Amissah noted that the summit offers an opportunity to review progress, discuss challenges, and align efforts towards achieving departmental objectives.
She said, “Today, we’ll be reviewing our accomplishments, discussing areas for improvement, and setting our sights on the future. Your input and expertise are crucial in shaping our strategy and driving success.”
Mrs Amissah lauded the PROs who participated in the 2024 training programme in Elmina, which focused on curbing information disorders.
She noted, “The training covered misinformation and disinformation, navigating information disorders using the RTI law, digital communication tools, and techniques for effective government engagement, as well as the use of artificial intelligence in PR and communications. We had seasoned resource persons, including Dr. Mahama, sharing their knowledge and expertise.”
She further acknowledged the collective efforts that have brought the PRCD to its current standing.
“Your collaboration, creativity, and commitment to excellence have made a significant impact on our work at the PRCD Secretariat, and we are grateful for your dedication,” she noted.
The summit, which is part of an evaluation of the performance of government PROs in Ministries, Departments, Agencies (MDAs), and Regional Coordinating Councils (RCCs), provided an opportunity for the PROs to reflect on their work, share insights, and strategize for the remaining year.
Patience Anaadem, ISD
