SECTOR 2 Scores: Individual scores: 1 Country does not meet indicator 2 Country meets only a few aspects of indicator 3 Country meets some aspects of indicator 4 Country meets most aspects of indicator 5 Country meets all aspects of the indicator Average score: 3.3 (2006: 2.0; 2008: 2.5; 2011: 2.9) 2.6 Government promotes a diverse media landscape with economically sustainable and independent media outlets. In 2011, the government announced the creation of the Media Development Fund (MDF), with the aim of “improving capacity within the media”. The MDF has, however, been dogged by controversy, with GH 1 million (USD 455 658,-) meant for media development and training having allegedly gone missing. The scandal aside, media practitioners are sceptical of the fund, and feel that funds might simply go to those who are pro-government. No criteria have been developed as to which media houses may receive assistance. “The media landscape is diverse, but there is the question of how to sustain it.” Government could do more to ensure an economically diverse media landscape by diversifying its advert placements across various media – private and public – as they rely on advertising for their survival. “The law says that advertising by government should be done through state media, but this needs to be extended to private media too”. “The Daily Graphic was weaned off government subsidies after 40 years of government support.” In the broadcasting sector, some media equipment is tax deductible. Panellists were not sure whether these waivers were being extended to other media. Government has communicated its intent to support community radio stations, and the current administration noted the importance of local stations in its party manifesto as an important tool for development. “The plan to set up the community radios might be where there is a clear intent to develop media, but there is the question of independence once this happens.” In collaboration with AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER GHANA 2013 33