The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has launched the 29th edition of its annual Media Awards, calling for professionalism, unity, innovation, and resilience in the evolving media landscape.
This year’s awards, for the first time, will be held outside Accra at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, under the distinguished patronage of His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene, on Saturday, November 8, 2025.
It will also be on the theme, “Safeguarding Ghana’s Future: The role of the media in promoting peace, security and the fight against galamsey”.
The event, held yesterday, in Accra, also featured the inauguration of the Awards and Planning Committees, which drew journalists, diplomats, corporate executives, and government representatives to celebrate Ghanaian journalism and chart a new course for the industry.
At the launch of the event, the Minister for Information and Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, commended the GJA for sustaining what he described as “the most anticipated annual celebration of excellence within the country’s journalistic fraternity.”
He said the decision to host the awards outside the capital was a welcome move that reflected inclusivity and the association’s commitment to representing all journalists nationwide.
“It was the one event that all journalists looked up to the moment when excellence in journalistic practice was recognised and celebrated,” he said.
The minister urged journalists and media organisations to embrace innovation and adapt to the changes brought about by social media and artificial intelligence (AI) while upholding ethical standards.
“The advent of new media has transformed journalism. We must evolve with the times, adopt new approaches, and find ways to include practitioners in the digital space while maintaining professional standards,” he said.
He called on the GJA to lead efforts to adapt and innovate, adding, “Even as new media becomes the order of the day, we must not abandon the core values of accuracy, ethics, and accountability that define good journalism.”
Commitment
He gave an assurance that the government remained committed to safeguarding press freedom and promoting constructive engagement.
Mr Kwakye Ofosu further pledged the government’s continued collaboration with the GJA to improve working conditions of journalists and to prevent attacks on media practitioners.
“We are aware of the financial and logistical challenges many media houses face, and we will continue to engage with you to explore ways to strengthen the industry,” he said, adding that the government had directed security agencies to show greater courtesy and professionalism in their interactions with media practitioners.
Renewal
The President of the GJA, Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, said the launch was a renewal of a “sacred tradition” that honours integrity, courage, and service to democracy.
He said this year’s theme reflects the pressing national issues confronting the country, including environmental degradation, social discord, and the growing menace of illegal mining.
“The media must rise, fair, fearless, and factual, as custodians of truth and conscience. We must document the destruction of our environment not merely as news, but as a national emergency,” he said.
Mr Dwumfour also announced plans to provide transportation and accommodation for over 500 journalists from Accra and other regions to ensure broad participation.
He said this year’s edition would not only celebrate excellence, but also offer “a unique Kumasi experience” combining culture, royalty, and professional recognition.
Support
The Executive Chairman of the KGL Group, Alex Apau-Danquah, reaffirmed the private sector’s commitment to supporting the media and national development.
He commended the GJA for promoting professionalism and pledged the KGL Group’s continued partnership with the association.
“Journalism at its core was never meant to harm, but to heal, not to sensationalise, but to illuminate and strengthen the fabric of our nation,” he said.
He added that responsible journalism was crucial to nurturing Ghanaian entrepreneurs and sustaining economic growth.
“As a nation, we must celebrate the visionaries who invest, innovate, and create opportunities for our people. At KGL, we stand resolute in our mission to build a legacy that uplifts Ghana,” he said.
Activities
This year's celebration would span a three-day celebration, beginning on Friday, November 7, with a welcome reception and emergency general meeting being held.
A health walk would be held on Saturday morning, followed by the main awards ceremony in the afternoon.
The day would climax with a royal dinner reception hosted by the Asantehene, and guests would be expected to depart on Sunday, November 9.
