The GJA awards, which were held on the theme of “75 Years of Excellence in Journalism: The Role of the Media in Democratic Governance and Elections,” culminated the association’s 75th anniversary celebration.
It brought together stalwarts in the media industry, including past and present presidents of the GJA. Also present were the Minister of Information, Fatimatu Abubakar; the United Nations (UN) Resident Representative to Ghana, Charles Abani; the Paramount Chief of Nandom Traditional Area, Naa Professor Edmund Nminyem Delle Chiir; and the Chairman of the National Media Commission (NMC), Yaw Boadu Ayeboafoh.
The Executive Director of the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO), Commissioner of Police (COP) Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah, and other dignitaries. At the ceremony, 32 journalists and media organizations that excelled in their work in 2023 were presented with awards in various categories.
Edward Adeti, a writer, reporter, and producer with Media Without Borders, was named the GJA Journalist of the Year.
Adeti’s investigative piece, “Stealing from the Sick,” solved the mystery behind drug shortages at the Bolgatanga Regional Hospital. This exposed a syndicate whose actions may have cost lives, earning him the prestigious P.A.V. Ansah Journalist of the Year award.
Recognized on Saturday, September 28, Adeti was celebrated for his impactful and courageous reporting, highlighting Ghanaian journalists’ dedication and competence despite the risks and challenges they face.
The 28th GJA Media Awards also honored journalists across various categories. Health Reporting, Education, Sports, Entertainment, Investigative Journalism, Gender, Environment, and Science and Technology.
Fred Duhoe of Channel One was also awarded Best Journalist for Television News Reporting. Beatrice Senadju of the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) was adjudged the Female Journalist of the Year.
In his acceptance speech, Mr. Adeti expressed gratitude to the GJA and his colleagues for the opportunity and honor. He dedicated the award to all journalists who fought for truth and justice despite the challenges and risks involved in their work.
He reaffirmed his commitment to using his platform to hold power to account and advocate transparency in governance.
GJA Awards: Media’s Role in Ghana
While paying glowing tribute to the GJA for its diamond jubilee, President Akufo-Addo stressed that journalists were required to do more to consolidate the country’s democracy.
He said it was refreshing that despite the avalanche of turbulent turfs, journalists had stood their ground and played a crucial role in national development.
“The story of Ghana’s democracy is incomplete without the contribution of the media. You have been there in moments of triumph and trial, standing as pillars of truth and integrity,” he said.
The President added that the media was the lifeblood of the independence struggle and remained a strong force for mobilizing relevant stakeholders for national development.
He also said the media was also a key force in the fight against corruption, ensuring human rights and shedding light on the darkness in governance.
President Akufo-Addo said the freedom of the media was essential to the health of the country’s democracy, so his government remained committed to supporting the fourth estate’s flourishing.
Other Awards
Edmund Smith-Asante picked up double awards: Columnist of the Year and Domestic Tourism Reporter of the Year. His colleague Kester Aburam Korankye received the Best Feature (Print) award, demonstrating his mastery of in-depth storytelling. Timothy Ngnenbe took home the Print News Reporter of the Year award. Emmanuel Bruce excelled in business and finance reporting, with Delali Sika lifting the arts and culture category.
Other award winners included Doreen Ampofo of GBC for Best Documentary (Radio); Naa Dede Akrong of GBC Obonu, Best Radio Show in Ghanaian Language. Ridwan Kareem Deen Osuman of EIB Network, Best Radio News Reporter.
Erastus Asare Donkor of Multimedia picked up the Illegal Mining Reporter of the Year. Stanley Nii Blewu of Media General secured the Best Documentary Online award, and Jonathan Donkor of Ghanaian Times, Best Road Safety Reporter.
