The Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) has launched the Network of Investigative and Public Interest Journalists (NIPIJ), a regional initiative to strengthen investigative journalism and deepen accountable governance across West Africa.
The network was officially inaugurated on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, in Accra, Ghana. The event brought together journalists, media experts, civil society actors, and government representatives from across West Africa. Participants highlighted the imperative of cross-country collaborations to enhance the incidence and impact of investigative and public interest reporting in the region.
An initiative of the MFWA with support from DW Akademie, NIPIJ will serve as an umbrella network for investigative journalists across West Africa, fostering cross-border collaboration, enhancing professional standards, and advancing impactful public interest journalism.
Promoting accountability through regional collaboration
Speaking at the launch, Dr. Kojo Impraim, Director of MFWA’s Media for Democracy and Good Governance (MDGG) programme, described NIPIJ as a significant step toward promoting accountability and transparency in the region. He noted that the network would bring together journalists with diverse expertise to collaborate, share information, and strengthen their capacity to investigate and report on issues of public interest, including corruption and human rights abuses
Dr. Impraim added that the initiative is intended to empower journalists to serve the public more effectively and contribute to building informed and resilient societies.
Other speakers highlighted the growing risks faced by investigative journalists in the region, including intimidation, legal threats, and financial constraints.
Mr. Jeorge Kingson Wilson, Executive Secretary of the Private Newspapers and Online Publishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAG), described the creation of NIPIJ as a timely intervention that will promote collaboration and support rigorous investigative work across borders.
In a solidarity message, Abdulai Awudu, President of the Ghana Independent Broadcasters Association (GIBA), emphasised that the network provides a critical support system, particularly for broadcast journalists; reinforcing both the normative watchdog role and constitutionally guaranteed mandate of the media in pursuing investigative journalism and advancing the public interest.
Support mechanisms for members
According to Adizatu Moro Maiga, Programme Manager at the MFWA, NIPIJ will provide a range of support mechanisms for members, including funding for investigative projects, professional development opportunities, and assistance to address legal and safety risks.
She said the network aims to build a strong community of journalists committed to impactful public interest reporting, while promoting safety, collaboration, and access to resources.
Commitment to NIPIJ
The network was officially launched by Prof. Akua Opokua Britwum, Chairperson of Ghana’s National Media Commission, who also delivered the keynote address. She expressed the Commission’s commitment to working with the MFWA for the success of the initiative.
The establishment of NIPIJ is expected to enhance regional cooperation among journalists and strengthen the role of the media in promoting accountability and good governance in West Africa.
