The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) on Thursday launched the 29th edition of the Media Awards in Accra, aimed at rewarding excellence, creativity and hardwork in journalism.
This year’s event will be held on November 8 at the Manhyia Palace, Kumasi, the first time the prestigious national event will be held outside Accra, a symbolic decision to ensure inclusivity.
The ceremony also saw the inauguration of two committees; the Awards and Planning committees, to see to the appropriate selection of awardees and organisation of the ceremony.
It was on the theme: “Safeguarding Ghana’s future: The role of the media in promoting peace, security, and the fight against Galamsey.”
Mr Felix Ofosu Kwakye, the Minister of State in charge of Government Communication, launched the awards and described the move as a long-overdue step towards greater inclusivity.
“For many years, it has been held in Accra and that has appeared to under-represent the interests of your members who live outside of Accra,” he said.
So it was with great delight that we received the news about the decision to host the event in Kumasi this year,” he said.
He assured of government’s commitment to be fully represented at the ceremony, under the royal patronage of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene.
“ We intend to do whatever we can to make this year’s celebration a success.”
The Minister congratulated the GJA for sustaining the awards over nearly three decades, describing it as “the most sought-after within the journalistic fraternity.”
He emphasised the evolving media landscape and called on the Association to recognise emerging forms of journalism shaped by social media and technology.
“In the past, journalism was practiced in traditional ways. Lately, the advent of social media and developments like AI have thrown challenges to these traditional methods,” he said.
He acknowledged the role of digital content creators, stating that while some may see them as “intrusive,” they represent a growing segment of information dissemination.
Mr Kwakye Ofosu urged the GJA to integrate such practitioners through mentorship and training to help them improve their skills.
“In the next few years, it has become obvious that many forms of traditional media will no longer be viable. New media will be the order of the day,” he said.
Touching on broader media freedoms, Mr Kwakye Ofosu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to press freedom while cautioning against abuse of digital platforms.
He said the government did not intend to curb freedoms and President John Dramani Mahama was one person who supported the expression of free speech.
“But he, as President, has the responsibility to ensure that our social fabric is not torn asunder,” he added.
He assured that the government would ensure regulation without infringing on journalistic freedoms in the rise in threats and misinformation via social media.
“The same levels of regulation, which permit journalistic practice must be brought to bear on new media. We will not act in any way that undermines press freedom,” he added.
Mr Albert Dwumfour, the President, GJA, described the upcoming awards as a “royal and national celebration.”
Mr Dwumfour emphasised that the awards were not merely about recognition but reaffirmed the mission of journalists to serve the public interest with truth, integrity, and accountability.
“Journalists across Ghana have strengthened democracy, exposed corruption, protected the environment, and amplified the voices of ordinary citizens,” he said.
“As we launch this year’s Awards, let us be reminded that the story of Ghana cannot be written without the voices of our journalists. Let the awards rekindle in us the fire of purpose, pride, and professionalism.”
The GJA President said the decision to host the awards in Kumasi under the patronage of the Asantehene was more than just a venue change, but a symbolic statement of inclusivity.
“His Majesty embodies peace, justice, and leadership. Values that lie at the very heart of responsible journalism.”
The GJA President announced that accommodation and transportation would be fully provided for over 500 journalists traveling to Kumasi, to ensure nationwide participation.
“We are not just organizing an event; we are creating an experience. A celebration of our craft, our unity, and our contribution to Ghana’s democratic journey,” he added.
He called for continued support from corporate Ghana, especially recognising KGL Group of Companies and Alisa Hotel for their invaluable sponsorship.
The awards weekend will begin with a welcome reception at the Lancaster Hotel on Friday, November 7, followed by a health walk on the morning of Saturday, November 8, and culminate in the main awards ceremony at 1600, at the Manhyia Palace.
Later that evening, the Asantehene will host a royal dinner reception at 1900 hours in honour of award winners and guests.
The nine-member awards committee is chaired by Mr. Gabriel Bosompem, Former Commissioner, National Media Commission, and former Production Manager of TV3 (Media General).
The members are Mr Kingsley Obeng-Kyere, 2012 GJA-PAV Ansah Journalist of the Year and Senior Manager, Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC), Madam Nana Yaa Konadu, Presenter, Peace FM; and Madam Theresa Owusu Ako, Former Head of Radio News, GBC.
The rest are Madam Agnes Boye-Doe, Deputy News Editor, Ghana News Agency; Mr. David Andoh, President, Ghana Photojournalists Network and Photojournalist, Multimedia; Alhaji Salifu Abdul Rahaman, Editor, Ghanaian Times, Mr. Samuel Bio, Night Editor, Graphic Communications GroupLimited and Mr. Jeorge Wilson Kingston, ExecutiveSecretary, PRINPAG.
GNA
