Appeal for public support – The Fourth Estate journalism project

In 2021, the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) launched The Fourth Estate as a non-profit, public interest investigative journalism project. The project aims to produce in-depth, fact-based reports that promote transparency, accountability, and public good by exposing corruption and other forms of wrongdoing.

Over the past four years, we have demonstrated that when independent, critical journalism is given the support to thrive, it can lead to real, measurable change. Despite operating with limited resources, our stories have had significant national impact: saving the country billions of cedis, prompting policy reforms, holding public officials accountable, and improving lives across Ghana.

A few of our most impactful investigations include:

• The “Scholarships Bonanza” series, which has prompted ongoing reforms in the public scholarships system
• The SML exposé, which prompted a Presidential intervention, saved the country hundreds of millions of cedis and has led to ongoing investigations and arrests of high-level officials
• The NSS Scandal, which has saved the nation hundreds of millions of cedis and prompted ongoing investigations and a Presidential directive for system changes
• The Asset Declaration series, which has compelled Ministers, Judges, and CEOs to comply with the Asset Declaration law
• The Free Wi-Fi investigation, which has led to contract reviews and ongoing investigations

Our track record shows that for every GHS1,000 we invest in an investigation, the nation saves millions, contracts are terminated, and policies are reviewed. This is journalism with tangible results and value.

The Fourth Estate Project has earned both national and international recognition for its work, including the 2024 World Justice Challenge Award and the 2023 Eisenhower Fellowships Impact Award.

However, our commitment to truth and public accountability often comes at great personal and financial cost. As a result of our reporting, we are currently fighting multiple lawsuits, mostly aimed at intimidating and silencing us. These legal battles are ongoing, costly and draining.

Despite these challenges, we remain resolute. But we cannot do this alone.

We are calling on all Ghanaians in Ghana and outside Ghana, and supporters of democracy and transparency everywhere, to stand with us. Your donation will enable us to continue our investigations, defend against legal intimidation, and expand our work to serve you even better.

Support impactful journalism. Donate today.

You can contribute via:
Online via Paystack: [Please click here to donate]
Mobile Money: 0555095594
Bank Transfer (Absa Bank): Account Number: 1976440 Branch: Head Office

Every cedi you give strengthens the fight for justice and transparency in Ghana.

Thank you for your support.