Media
In an era where virality often seems more valuable than verification, Akoto Boafo believes many young journalists are chasing visibility instead of credibility.
As the interview drew to a close, Kafui Dey asked Godfred Akoto Boafo to leave one final message for young journalists across Africa.
The veteran broadcaster didn’t hesitate. “Do the leg work”, he said.
In an era where virality often seems more valuable than verification, Akoto Boafo believes many young journalists are chasing visibility instead of credibility.
“Everybody’s chasing fame because we are in an era where fame brings money,” he observed.
With social media rewarding clicks, engagement and instant reactions, he understands why many are tempted to skip the hard work.
But he warned that shortcuts come at a cost.
“I still do the leg work,” he said. “It pays off longer than the short, instantaneous gratification.”
For him, journalism is built on curiosity, research and persistence.
The hours spent reading documents, making phone calls, checking facts and asking difficult questions eventually become a journalist’s greatest asset.
“The leg work gives you substance. The leg work gives you knowledge. The leg work gives you push.”
Throughout the interview, Akoto Boafo repeatedly returned to one belief that reading deeply and researching thoroughly are becoming rare skills in modern broadcasting.
His closing words were therefore less of a motivational slogan and more of a career blueprint.
Long after social media trends disappear, he believes journalists who consistently do the hard work will still have something valuable to offer.
“Do the leg work,” he repeated.
Simple advice but perhaps the most important lesson of the conversation.
More Stories
