By Isatou Sarr
The Gambia Press Union (GPU) on Friday joined the global commemoration of World Press Freedom Day, held at Bakadaji Hotel, to reflect on the role of the media in democratic societies and the conditions under which journalists work locally and globally.
GPU President Isatou Keita used the occasion to call on the government and media owners to reaffirm their commitment to freedom of expression and to protect the rights of journalists, as enshrined under Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
She said this year’s global theme, “Reporting in the Brave New World: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media,” is a timely reminder of how AI is reshaping journalism from content creation to deepfakes and data mining.
“AI-generated content, curated from work journalists have put so much effort into, raises serious concerns about fair remuneration and media viability,” Keita said.
In The Gambia, she explained, the local theme “Media Freedom and Responsibility” is crucial as the industry faces challenges like ethical lapses, weak professional standards, and public distrust.
“We must report freely but also act responsibly, adhere to journalistic ethics, and be accountable to the people we serve,” she stressed. Keita also urged media owners to hire competent staff and ensure fair and timely compensation.
She raised concern over the country’s stagnant position in the 2025 Global Press Freedom Index 58th globally and 11th in Africa citing journalist arrests, economic hardship, and the slow implementation of the Access to Information law.
Highlighting the poor working conditions for Gambian journalists, especially young and female reporters, Keita called for swift reforms. “Many are overworked and underpaid, with salaries delayed for months. This is unacceptable.”
Information Minister Dr. Ismaila Ceesay described the theme as both a promise and a warning. While AI can improve media robustness, he warned, it can also spread misinformation and erode trust.
“AI can reduce newsroom jobs, manipulate information, and sow doubt,” he said, but added, “there is no threat to media freedom in this country under President Barrow’s government.”
He pledged government support in working with the GPU and other stakeholders to develop strong codes of conduct and a national strategy to combat fake news.
“This fight against misinformation is a shared duty,” he concluded.
