The Ghana Independent Broadcasters Association (GIBA) has joined broadcasters across the globe to commemorate World Radio Day 2026, reaffirming radio’s enduring relevance and calling for the responsible use of artificial intelligence in broadcasting.
World Radio Day, celebrated annually on February 13, was proclaimed by UNESCO in 2011 and later adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2012 to honour radio broadcasters and recognise the medium’s vital role in informing, educating, and connecting societies.
This year’s celebration is guided by UNESCO’s global theme, “Radio and Artificial Intelligence – AI is a tool, not a voice,” which highlights the need to keep the human voice at the centre of broadcasting while embracing technological innovation with ethical responsibility and editorial independence.
In a statement signed by its President, Abdulai Awudu, GIBA noted that radio remains one of the most trusted and widely consumed media platforms worldwide, with unmatched geographical reach and accessibility. The Association said radio’s strength lies in its ability to reflect diversity, foster dialogue, and provide a platform for political, social, spiritual, and environmental voices.
GIBA emphasised that this influence places a responsibility on radio stations to serve communities with balanced, inclusive, and credible content, especially as new technologies increasingly shape media production and distribution.
“In Ghana, radio continues to play a critical role beyond entertainment by providing timely and relevant information that shapes public discourse,” the statement said. While acknowledging that artificial intelligence can enhance content creation, quality, interactivity, and delivery, GIBA stressed that professional judgment, creativity, and public service values must remain intact.
The Association echoed UNESCO’s position that trust in broadcasting is built by people, not technology, noting that while AI can support innovation, it cannot replace the credibility and responsibility of human broadcasters.
On behalf of its Executive Council, GIBA commended all radio broadcasters and media professionals for their dedication and service, urging them to remain steadfast as trusted voices that advance democracy, development, education, and national cohesion.
GIBA wished all radio broadcasters and their employees a meaningful and impactful World Radio Day 2026.
