Celebrating Excellence in Journalism
Godwin Asediba, a prominent journalist from TV3 Network, was recently honored as the 2024 Journalist of the Year by the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) during its 29th Awards and Gala Night. The event took place at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, marking a significant moment for the association.
Asediba is known for his compelling human-interest stories that highlight social injustices and give a voice to marginalized communities. In addition to being named Journalist of the Year, he also won the award for Best in Documentary Reporting. This latest recognition comes after his previous win as the 2024 BBC News Komla Dumor Award recipient, further solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in Ghanaian journalism.
Recognizing Outstanding Contributions
Ms. Abigail Annoh from The Ghanaian Times received the award for Best in Health Reporting, showcasing her dedication to covering critical health issues in the country. Meanwhile, four journalists from the Ghana News Agency (GNA) were recognized for their outstanding work:
- Albert Oppong Ansahfor Best in Online News Reporting
- Issifu Dasmani Laaryfor Best in Road Safety Reporting
- James Amoh Juniorfor Best Photojournalist
- Solomon Gumahfor Best in Online Features
Nabil Ahmed Rufai also stood out by winning two awards: Best in News Reporting (TV) and Best in Arts and Entertainment Reporting.
Other celebrated journalists included Ridwan Karim Dini-Osman, Sarah Apenkro, Rachel Kakraba, Samuel Dowuona, Masahudu Ankilu Kunateh, Severious Kale-Dery, Edmund Smith-Asante, Timothy Ngnenbe, Justice Agbenorsi, Esther Aidoo, Anass Sabit, Ohemeng Tawiah, Clinton Yeboah, Muftau Nabila Abdulai, Peter Agengre, Rosemond Akuorkor Adjetey, Agyei Annim, Ebenezer Madugu, and the Ekosiisen team from Asempa FM.
A Historic Event
This year’s ceremony marked a historic milestone as it was the first time the GJA held its flagship awards outside Accra in nearly three decades. The event was hosted at the Otumfuo Jubilee Hall at Manhyia under the distinguished patronage of His Royal Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene.
In a gesture of royal recognition, the Asantehene presented Godwin Asediba with GH¢25,000, commending his journalistic excellence and commitment to truth. Similarly, Doreen Ampofo of the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) received GH¢25,000 from the Asantehene after winning three major categories: Best Female Journalist of the Year, Best in Documentary (Radio), and Best in Gender Reporting. Her wins highlighted the growing impact of women in shaping Ghana’s media landscape.
Thematic Focus and Keynote Address
The 2024 GJA Awards were themed “Safeguarding Ghana’s Future: The Role of the Media in Promoting Peace, Security and the Fight Against Galamsey.” The event attracted 321 entries across diverse categories, reflecting the vibrant and dynamic nature of Ghanaian journalism.
President John Dramani Mahama served as the special guest of honour and delivered a keynote address reaffirming his commitment to press freedom and responsible journalism. Other dignitaries who addressed the event included Acting Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, KGL Group Executive Chairman Alex Apau Dadey, Government Communications Lead Felix Kwakye Ofosu, and National Media Commission Chair Akua Opokua Britwum.
A Royal Celebration
The event culminated in a royal dinner in honor of the GJA, where the Asantehene revealed that the chosen Saturday coincided with Dapaa—a sacred period during which Asante Kings traditionally refrain from public engagements ahead of the Sunday Akwasidae celebration.