Ministry of Information meets Ghana advertisers

The Advertising Association of Ghana (AAG) on Wednesday, met with the Minister of Information, Mr John Tia Akologu, following concerns highlighted earlier by the government over the unethical use of children in adverts.

The AAG was led by Mr Joel Nettey, Vice President and he was accompanied by Mr Francis Dadzie and Mr Tim Acquah Hayford, Executive Director and Chairman of AAG’s Ethics Committee, respectively.

Other representatives of the Ministry of Information were the Deputy Minister of Information, Mr Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Acting Chief Director, Mr Xola Senaya and Professor Lynus Abraham, Rector of the National Film and Television Institute (NAFTI).

A statement issued by the Ministry said it was evident from deliberations that challenges existed in the advertising industry, including the abuse of children, commercialization of children, the use of children to promote gambling and blackmail advertisement.

The AAG pointed out that it was important to note that though they had published a book on ethics on advertising, not all members were abiding by the ethics.

The statement said AAG noted that only some 70 per cent of advertisers belonged to their association so those who did not belong to any association might be doing what they pleased.

It said an important point of agreement at the meeting was the need for Ghana to have an Advertising Standards Authority, established by legislation, which would regulate and sanitize the advertising industry whiles having the powers of enforcing sanctions.

The statement said both parties agreed to commence work on the draft framework for such an authority.

It said the meeting took place in a very cordial atmosphere, adding that, the Minister commended the executive of AAG for their leadership and positive attitude.

He assured Ghanaians that Government would continue to do its best to offer protection and support to the vulnerable, the weak and minors.

Source: GNA