SPEECH BY MR. ALBERT KWABENA DWUMFOUR, PRESIDENT OF THE GHANA JOURNALISTS ASSOCIATION (GJA), AT THE LAUNCH OF THE 29TH GJA MEDIA AWARDS HELD AT THE ALISA HOTEL, ACCRA – THURSDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2025
With profound humility and deep respect, I welcome you on behalf of the National Executive of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) to the official launch of the 29th GJA Media Awards and the inauguration of the Awards Committee.
Today marks not merely the unveiling of an annual event, but the renewal of a sacred tradition — one that celebrates excellence, integrity, and the enduring power of the Ghanaian media to shape thought, influence change, and safeguard the destiny of our beloved nation.
Celebrating Excellence, Expanding Our Horizon
For nearly three decades, the GJA Media Awards have stood as the pinnacle of journalistic excellence in Ghana — a testament to the courage, sacrifice, and commitment of journalists who serve as the watchdogs and educators of our democracy.
Over the years, these Awards have honoured not just individuals, but a profession. Through investigative reports, documentaries, and editorials, journalists across Ghana have strengthened democracy, exposed corruption, protected the environment, and amplified the voices of ordinary citizens.
This noble tradition continues, not merely as a ceremony of recognition, but as a reaffirmation of our mission as journalists — to serve the public interest with truth and integrity, to uphold ethics even when it is difficult, and to defend press freedom without fear or favour.
A Historic and Royal Milestone
Distinguished guests, this year’s edition of the GJA Media Awards is both significant and historic. For the first time in our history, our flagship national event will be hosted outside Accra, under the auspices of His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, on Saturday, November 8, 2025.
To have His Majesty — the occupant of the Golden Stool — host the highest celebration of Ghanaian journalism is a moment of profound honour; a convergence of tradition, wisdom, and professionalism.
The Asantehene embodies peace, justice, and leadership — values that lie at the very heart of responsible journalism. In His Majesty’s stewardship of Asanteman and his unwavering devotion to Ghana’s unity and development, we find inspiration to tell stories that build bridges, shine light where there is darkness, and give voice to the voiceless with fairness and truth.
A Royal and National Celebration
The decision to host the Awards in Kumasi is not merely a change of venue; it is a symbolic statement of inclusivity. It signifies the GJA’s commitment to making our Association truly national — one that is felt, seen, and celebrated in every region of Ghana.
We are deeply honoured that the Asantehene has graciously agreed to be the Guest of Honour. His presence will elevate this year’s event to a level of prestige befitting our noble profession.
We expect a grand gathering of nearly one thousand guests, including Ministers of State, diplomats, corporate leaders, journalists, and civil society representatives. It will be a convergence of royalty, excellence, and purpose, where Ghana’s finest storytellers will be celebrated under the royal canopy of Manhyia.
Programme Line-Up: The Kumasi Experience
Our Awards weekend in Kumasi promises to blend culture, networking, and celebration:
- Friday, November 8, 2025: Arrival and Welcome Reception – Lancaster Hotel, 6:30 PM
- Saturday, November 9, Health Walk- 6 am
- Saturday, November 9, 2025: 29th GJA Media Awards Ceremony – Manhyia Palace, 4:00 PM; Dinner Reception – 7:00 PM
To encourage wide participation, I am pleased to announce that the GJA will provide accommodation and feeding for journalists attending the Awards weekend. Details on registration and logistics will be communicated in the coming weeks.
This is not just an event; it is an experience — a celebration of our craft, our unity, and our contribution to Ghana’s democratic journey.
Theme: Safeguarding Ghana’s Future
Our chosen theme for this year — “Safeguarding Ghana’s Future: The Role of the Media in Promoting Peace, Security and the Fight Against Galamsey” — reflects the pressing realities of our time.
Ghana stands at a crossroads. We face threats of environmental degradation, social discord, and misinformation. The menace of illegal mining continues to ravage our lands and poison our rivers, threatening not only our natural heritage but the very survival of our people.
Peace and security — the cornerstones of our national stability — are tested daily by the forces of division, extremism, and disinformation.
It is within this context that the media must rise — firm, fearless, and fair — as custodians of truth and conscience. We must document the destruction of our environment not merely as news, but as a national emergency; hold those in authority accountable, yet remain partners in nation-building.
This theme challenges us to move beyond headlines to impact — to ensure that every word we publish and every image we broadcast contributes to peace, justice, and environmental sustainability.
Inauguration of the Awards Committee
The credibility of the GJA Media Awards rests on the integrity and professionalism of its Awards Committee.
I am therefore pleased to inaugurate a distinguished team of media professionals chaired by Mr. Gabriel Bosompem, former Member of the National Media Commission and former Production Manager of TV3.
Other members include:
- Mr. Kingsley Obeng-Kyere – 2012 GJA/PAV Ansah Journalist of the Year, Senior Manager, GBC
- Madam Nana Yaa Konadu – Presenter, Peace FM
- Madam Theresa Owusu Ako – Former Head of Radio News, GBC
- Madam Agnes Boye-Doe – Deputy News Editor, Ghana News Agency
- Mr. David Andoh – President, Ghana Photojournalists Network & Photojournalist, Multimedia Group
- Alhaji Salifu Abdul-Rahaman – Editor, Ghanaian Times, News Times Corporation
- Mr. Samuel Bio – Night Editor, Graphic Communications Group Limited
- Mr. Jeorge Wilson Kingston – Executive Secretary, PRINPAG
This formidable team represents the breadth and depth of Ghana’s media landscape. The GJA Executive has full confidence in their competence and fairness to uphold the highest standards of excellence in selecting the recipients of our most prestigious honours — including the GJA/P.A.V. Ansah Journalist of the Year, the Best Female Journalist of the Year, the Komla Dumor Most Promising Journalist of the Year, and the Best Student Journalist of the Year.
Acknowledgement of Sponsors and Partners
Before I conclude, let me express our heartfelt appreciation to our partners and sponsors who continue to support the GJA in sustaining this great tradition.
Source:Fiilafmonline/3News
