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Investigative Journalism in Ghana

Anke Rasper | Patrick Batarilo
September 14, 2022

To expose corruption, discrimination and other crimes in Ghana, investigative journalists face personal threats and many challenges to improve their country. What drives them to do their job despite all odds and little pay?

https://p.dw.com/p/4GpdO

Ghana used to a model democracy in West Africa, with a free press as one of its cornerstones. The country has many natural resources, it's rich in minerals, cocoa and oil. But there are huge income disparities among its more than 33 million people, and many Ghanaians face poverty. 

At the same time, corruption has be mounting. And journalists exposing this kind of crime are now facing increasing pressure -- or they get police protection because of death threats against them, some have even been forced to flee the country. 

Our reporter, Patrick Batarilo, met three investigative journalists from Ghana - and he was impressed by their courage and idealism. All of them have been risking a lot to expose corruption, human trafficking, discrimination and other crimes. And as one of them told our reporter --  just like in the case of the proverbial cat -- too much curiosity can prove deadly. But that's not stopping them.

What's driving them to continue their works against all odds - and very little pay? 

 

Producer: Anke Rasper 
Author: Patrick Batarilo
Presenter: Neil King 
 

Anke Rasper
Anke Rasper Anke is a senior editor with DW's environment team.