Some 500 Ghanaian journalists that will cover this year’s presidential and parliamentary elections would enjoy insurance cover in case of any eventuality while going about their constitutional duties.
The Ghana Journalist Association (GJA) secured the GHC20 million insurance package from the State Insurance Company (SIC) and according to the GJA, the historic initiative will serve as a cushion for unforeseen experiences journalists may encounter while covering the polls in the various constituencies.
GJA President, Roland Affail Monney at a brief signing ceremony explained that the insurance package will cover amongst other things, deaths, and permanent injuries.
Mr. Monney said “SIC says it deems it a national responsibility to support the GJA in performing this national assignment. The company adds that performing this task involves high risks including bodily injury, damage or destruction of equipment like cameras…and in some cases death.”
He added that each accredited journalist on the scheme “has up to GHC40, 000 for death and permanent disability and GHC3,300 per month for a period not less than 12 months.”
The valid period for the insurance package according to Mr. Monney spans from November 1, 2020, through to January 31, 2021.
Affail Monney also urged all journalists to take caution and adhere to safety measures before, during, and after the elections.
