Explaining The Challenges And Representations Of Radio And Television Female Managers And Editors In Ghana

Abstract

This study examined the representation of women in media leadership in Ghana, focusing specifically on managers and editors in radio and television who occupy decision-making and role-assigning positions. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research combined quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews, analysed through selective coding to explore challenges and structural barriers affecting women’s leadership progression. The findings reveal that, women’s representation in leadership roles within Ghana’s media has improved over the years, yet remains uneven and disproportionately low at the topmost levels. Quantitative results indicate that organizational leadership tends to favour men, while qualitative insights highlight institutional discrimination, cultural expectations, motherhood penalties, and newsroom politics as major constraints. The study also found that, women continue to face multiple barriers which influence their leadership experience in the media including gender bias, heavy domestic responsibilities, lack of recognition, and stereotyping. The research concludes that women possess the competence and qualifications for leadership roles, but structural and cultural constraints limit their upward mobility. The study recommends gender-sensitive HR policies, transparent promotion systems, mentorship programs, and policy reforms by regulatory bodies to promote greater gender equity in media leadership.