Turkish Embassy and Airlines Sponsor Journalists for Special Trip to Turkey
The Turkish Embassy in Ghana and Turkish Airlines have made a significant contribution by agreeing to sponsor the P.A.V. Ansah Journalist of the Year, Female Journalist of the Year, and Student Journalist of the Year for a special trip to Turkey. This sponsorship is part of the package for this year’s GJA Media Awards.
Mr. Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, the President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), revealed this information during the 29th GJA Media Awards, which took place at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi. He expressed gratitude to the Turkish Embassy and its partners for their ongoing support to the association and extended congratulations to all the award recipients for their commitment and excellence.
Mr. Dwumfour reiterated the association’s dedication to promoting journalistic excellence and maintaining the highest professional standards in Ghana’s media landscape. He highlighted that this year’s awards aimed to recognize hard work, innovation, and professionalism among journalists and media institutions, while also encouraging practitioners to contribute significantly to national development.
A total of twenty-nine journalists were recognized across various categories, with outstanding media organizations also receiving program-based and institutional awards. The event celebrated not only individual achievements but also the collective efforts of media houses in upholding quality journalism.
Theme of the Event: Safeguarding Ghana’s Future
Speaking about the theme for this year’s event, “Safeguarding Ghana’s Future: The Role of the Media in Promoting Peace, Security and the Fight Against Galamsey,” Mr. Dwumfour emphasized the critical role of the media in advancing national cohesion and sustainable development. He stressed that peace and security are essential foundations for progress, stating, “Development can only thrive in the absence of conflict.”
He called on the government to address the ethical and governance challenges facing the nation, which he said were undermining social harmony and environmental sustainability. In addition, he encouraged journalists to remain committed to promoting peace, exposing wrongdoing, and supporting the fight against illegal mining, which continues to pose a threat to the environment and the future of many communities.
A Gathering of Influential Figures
The event was held under the distinguished patronage of the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, bringing together journalists, traditional leaders, diplomats, and media stakeholders from across the country. This gathering underscored the importance of collaboration between different sectors in advancing the media’s role in national development.
The GJA Media Awards not only serve as a platform to celebrate excellence in journalism but also as a reminder of the responsibilities that journalists hold in shaping public discourse and driving positive change. With the support of partners like the Turkish Embassy and Turkish Airlines, the association continues to foster an environment where journalists can thrive and contribute meaningfully to society.
As the media landscape evolves, the GJA remains committed to ensuring that journalists are equipped with the tools and resources needed to uphold their profession with integrity and impact. The recognition of outstanding individuals and institutions serves as a testament to the enduring value of quality journalism in Ghana.