The Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Hon. Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has commended the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) for the bold decision to host the 29th GJA Awards in Kumasi for the first time, describing it as a significant step towards inclusivity and decentralization.
Speaking at the official launch of the awards and inauguration of the awards committee in Kumasi on Thursday, Mr. Kwakye Ofosu, who represented President John Dramani Mahama at the event, said the move signals the Association’s commitment to serving its members across the country—not just those based in the capital.
“For many years, the GJA Awards have been held in Accra. That has tended to favour your members who live in and around the capital,” he noted. “So it was with great delight that we received the news of your decision to host this year’s event in Kumasi.”
According to the Minister, the decision not only reflects the GJA’s national character but also acknowledges the critical contributions of journalists based in other regions, who often face limited visibility despite their hard work.
“This innovation is commendable. It gives journalists across the country a sense of belonging and recognition. It is our hope that this becomes a new tradition that reflects the diversity and strength of the media across Ghana,” he added.
Mr. Kwakye Ofosu assured the Association of the *full support of the government* in making the event a success, stressing the importance of the awards in promoting excellence and professionalism in journalism.
“The GJA Awards remain the most anticipated event in the country’s media calendar. It is the one event where excellence in journalistic practice is recognized and celebrated. For this reason, we intend to do whatever we can to support it,” he said.
Kumasi Event Marks New Chapter
The 2025 edition of the GJA Awards is expected to draw journalists, media executives, and dignitaries from across the country to Kumasi, the capital of the Ashanti Region. The move has been widely praised as a recognition of Kumasi’s growing status as a media hub.
The Minister noted that by rotating the venue of the prestigious awards, the GJA is also offering new regions the opportunity to share in the national spotlight.
“This is not just a symbolic gesture. It has real impact—economic, social, and professional. It gives the regions an opportunity to host national conversations about the future of journalism,” he said.
Government Reaffirms Commitment to Press Freedom
In his broader address, Mr. Kwakye Ofosu reaffirmed President Mahama’s commitment to press freedom and media engagement, assuring journalists that the government does not intend to curb their rights, even as it seeks responsible use of both traditional and new media.
He encouraged the media to continue holding government accountable but urged that this be done within the framework of the law to protect national security and social cohesion.
“President Mahama is perhaps the most media-friendly leader we’ve had. He supports press freedom, accepts criticism, and remains open to scrutiny,” he emphasized.
The government, he added, remains open to partnership with the GJA and other media bodies to improve conditions of service for journalists and ensure a safe and supportive environment for their work.
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