Ohemeng, an Assistant News Editor with Joynews was recognised for his feat in reporting on illegal mining, in which he suffered life-threatening injuries at the hands of illegal miners.

President Mahama told the 29th GJA Awards that such bravery exhibited by Ohemeng Tawiah and his colleague Erastus Asare Donkor inspires hope in the fight against environmental crime.

“I wish to commend journalists like Erastus Asare Donkor and my dear brother Ohemeng, who won the Best Reporter on Illegal Mining, and many others who persist in exposing environmental crime at great personal risk to themselves.”

Ohemeng Tawiah, who has been reporting on illegal mining activities since 2005, received machete wounds, broken wrists, and chest injuries while covering a police raid at the Offin Shelter Belt Forest Reserve on December 20, 2024.

The bandits also seized his Samsung and Sony phones, an amount of GH₵5,600, and a Bluetooth device before smashing the team’s Sony camera.

Ohemeng had earlier exposed the nefarious activities of the illegal miners, protected by armed National Security operatives backed by some elements of the then government in power in the run-up to the 2024 elections, in three forest reserves: the Asenayo, Jimira, and Offin Shelter Belt Forest Reserves in the Ashanti region.

He reported that sounds of excavators could be heard all over the forests as the illegal miners plunder the forests.

These reserves remained a no-go area until May 2025, when the Ministry of Lands announced the government had reclaimed them from the illegal miners.

This feat, according to a government statement, followed coordinated operations led by the Forestry Commission with the support of security agencies under the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.

These reserves remained green until a few months before the elections, as confirmed by the Ashanti Regional Manager of the Forestry Commission, Clement Omari, and the Nkawie District Forest Manager, Abraham Essel.

His report, aired on Joynews TV, Adom TV, and Joy Prime TV and also published on Myjoyonline.com, detailed how the ‘dangerous gang’ had succeeded in preventing Forestry Commission officials from accessing the forest.https://www.youtube.com/embed/rWfSrP_DZbM?si=mRlCd2P1N7J-S_ku

But despite the attacks, Ohemeng Tawiah protected the most important asset, the memory card, which contained video footage of the destruction caused by illegal miners as well as the bandits.

This special act of protecting vital evidence even at the peril of his life earned him praise at the 29th GJA Awards held at the Manhyia Palace, attended by then Acting Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie under the patronage of the Asantehene, Otumfuor Osei Tutu II.

“Courage is not the absence of fear. It is acting in spite of it. Through your work, you exemplify this courage. Through painstaking investigations, you exposed the nefarious operations of illegal mining in the Offin Shelter Forest Reserve, bringing national attention to the environmental crimes that threaten Ghana’s forests and communities.”

“Your fearless reporting not only prompted immediate action, forcing illegal miners to remove excavators, but also came at a high personal cost,” a citation accompanying his award reads.

“Brutally assaulted by armed illegal miners while documenting their activities, you sustained life-threatening injuries, yet protected vital evidence on the culprits,” the citation added.

The GJA announced Ohemeng Tawiah’s award at the Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Hall at the Manhyia Palace, describing his exploits as “unwavering bravery.”

“For your unwavering bravery, commitment to truth, and relentless commitment to the fight against galamsey, the Ghana Journalists Association proudly honours you, Ohemeng Tawiah, with this award. We celebrate you for risking your life to shine light on the shadows of illegal mining.”

Emmanuel Armah Kofi-Buah, Lands and Natural Resources Minister, and Dr. Frank Amoakohene, Ashanti Regional Minister, had their first illegal mining assignment in the Ashanti region, which took place in the Offin Shelterbelt Forest Reserve.

The attacks on Ohemeng Tawiah, who spent days at the hospital, received wide condemnation both locally and abroad.

While the Ghana Journalists Association called on President Mahama to take personal interest in the case, the Media Foundation for West Africa called for the swift arrest of the perpetrators.

The Committee for the Protection of Journalists, New York, through its Abuja office, called for accountability on the part of Ghanaian authorities to bring the attackers to book.

For President Mahama, such bravery and perseverance inspire hope, especially in the nation’s quest to fight environmental plunder.

“Your bravery is noted. It is patriotic, and your efforts strengthen our moral reserve to continue the fight against illegal mining,” he said.

“I wish to assure you, as your president, that I will never, never give up the fight,” he added.

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The event was held for the first time in the Ashanti Region at the Manhyia Palace under the patronage of the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.

President John Dramani Mahama was the special guest of honour.

The Multimedia Group Limited (MGL) stood out at the awards, securing several key accolades across English and Ghanaian-language programming, sports journalism, investigative reporting, and overall station recognition.

• Best Radio/TV Programme (Ghanaian Languages, 2024) – Ekosiisen, Asempa FM
• Best Akan TV Station of the Year – Adom TV
• Best Radio/TV Programme (English Language, 2024) – The Probe, JoyNews
• Best Radio Entertainment Programme – Showbiz A-Z, Joy FM

The awards underscored the role of the media in addressing critical national issues such as peace, security, and the fight against illegal mining, reflecting this year’s theme: “Safeguarding Ghana’s Future: The Role of the Media in Promoting Peace, Security and the Fight Against Galamsey.”

• Graphic Communications Group Ltd (GCGL) and the Daily Graphic won Best Design, with individual awards going to Severious Kale-Dery (Editor, Agriculture & Education), Edmund Smith-Asante (Regional Page & Supplements Editor), Timothy Ngnenbe, and Justice Agbenorsi.
• Individual journalists: Nabil Ahmed Rufai (Freelancer), Ridwan Karim Dini-Osman (EIB Network), Albert Oppong Ansah (GNA), Sarah Apenkro (TV3), Rachel Kakraba (GBC), Solomon Gumah (GNA), Samuel Dowuona (TECHFOCUS), Masahudu Ankilu Kunateh (African Eye Report), Doreen Ampofo (GBC), Esther Aidoo (GBC), Anass Sabit (Joy News), Issifu Dasmani Laary (GNA), Ohemeng Tawiah (Joy TV), Clinton Yeboah (KNUST), Muftau Nabila Abdulai (Myjoyonline), James Amoo (GNA), Peter Agengre (GBC), Rosemond Akuorkor Adjetey (GHONE TV), Agyei Annim (Channel 1 TV), Abigail Annoh (Ghanaian Times), Ebenezer Madugu (Atinka), and Ekosiisen (Asempa FM).

Other media institutions were also honoured for their contributions to national development and public discourse: Multimedia Group, Adom TV, Joy FM, Daily Graphic, Peace FM, Citi FM, GTV, and UTV.

The awards committee received 321 entries this year, with the top three winners set to enjoy all-expenses-paid trips to Turkey, sponsored by Turkish Airlines. Other partners included KGL Group, Special Ice Mineral Water, and Tobinco Pharmacy.

In August this year, Asediba also won the 2025 BBC News Komla Dumor Award and is currently undertaking an internship with the BBC in London as part of the award.

He is the 29th recipient of the GJA Journalist of the Year Award and the 10th recipient of the BBC Komla Dumor Award.

His work, which also features on international platforms, often focuses on human-interest stories that highlight injustice and amplify the voices of marginalized communities.

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The award, announced during the prestigious ceremony, highlights Adom TV’s commitment to delivering high-quality news and programs that resonate with Ghana’s Akan-speaking audience.

The station has consistently focused on presenting accurate, engaging, and culturally relevant content, earning the trust of viewers across the country.

The 29th GJA/KGL Awards was held at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi under the theme “Safeguarding Ghana’s Future: The Role of the Media in Promoting Peace, Security and Development.”

The event honoured journalists and media organizations that have demonstrated excellence, integrity, and innovation in reporting and broadcasting.

Adom TV’s achievement as the Best Akan TV Station underscores the growing importance of local-language media in enhancing public understanding, promoting cultural identity, and strengthening Ghana’s media landscape.

This recognition reinforces Adom TV’s position as a leading media house in Ghana, dedicated to delivering news and content that inform, educate, and inspire.

In all, the Multimedia Group Limited swept eight awards at the event.

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This was at the 29th Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Media Awards, held at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi under the patronage of the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II with President John Dramani Mahama in attendance.

The flagship programme continues to solidify its reputation as one of Ghana’s most authoritative and engaging political and social talk shows.

This award marks another milestone in its illustrious run, reaffirming ‘Ekosiisen’ as a leading voice in the Ghanaian media landscape.

Hosted by Philip Osei Bonsu (Esq.) popularly known as OB, the GJA recognition applauded the programme for its proactive contribution to national discourse, particularly its role in informing the public and holding duty-bearers accountable ahead of the 2024 general elections.

Known for its innovative format, ‘Ekosiisen’ blends in-depth political analysis with relatable human-interest stories, successfully engaging audiences across the country.

In September this year, ‘Ekosii sen’ made history with its fourth Chartered Institute of Marketing, Ghana’s (CIMG) Radio Programme of the Year.

The award highlights the show’s consistent excellence in content production, journalistic integrity, and audience engagement, setting a benchmark for radio journalism in Ghana.

The 29th GJA Media Awards, themed “Safeguarding Ghana’s Future: The Role of the Media in Promoting Peace, Security and the Fight Against Galamsey,” celebrated outstanding contributions to journalism, with ‘Ekosiisen’ receiving top honours for its role in shaping informed public debate in Ghanaian languages.

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This marks the second consecutive year that Muftawu has received the prestigious honour, reaffirming his position as one of Ghana’s leading voices in sports journalism.

He first won the award at the 28th GJA Awards in September 2024.

The recognition celebrates his outstanding work across television, radio, and digital platforms, where he has continued to produce compelling sports stories.

Muftawu, who serves as a presenter and producer with JoyNews and JoySports, has been widely praised for his in-depth storytelling, investigative features, and dedication to promoting integrity and development within sports journalism.

The GJA Awards, organised annually by the Ghana Journalists Association, recognise excellence in journalism across various categories, celebrating reporters, editors, producers, and photographers who have demonstrated distinction and professionalism in their work.

Held under the theme “Safeguarding Ghana’s future: the role of the media in promoting peace, security and the fight against galamsey,” the 29th edition brought together media practitioners, Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, President John Dramani Mahama, other government officials, and industry stakeholders to honour outstanding contributions to journalism in Ghana.

Muftawu’s back-to-back win further solidifies his reputation as one of the most influential figures in Ghana’s contemporary sports media landscape.

Mr. Tawiah’s recognition came as a result of his exceptional work in reporting on the country’s illegal mining (galamsey) challenges.

His award-winning report, titled “Last Hour Illegal Mining Attacks on Forest Reserves Ahead of Elections,” stood out for its depth of research, strong narrative, and the courage it took to uncover sensitive and dangerous operations taking place in forest zones.

In the report aired on JoyNews, Mr. Tawiah exposed how illegal miners have been invading forest reserves in critical areas, destroying vegetation and water bodies in the process.

His story not only documented the environmental devastation caused by galamsey but also revealed the link between these illegal operations and political activities, particularly during election periods.

Through his fearless journalism, he gave a voice to affected communities and called attention to the urgent need for stronger enforcement of mining regulations.

The GJA awards panel commended him for his professionalism, integrity, and commitment to factual and balanced reporting, noting that his work contributes immensely to the national discourse on environmental preservation and sustainable development.

For years, Mr. Ohemeng Tawiah has been one of The Multimedia Group’s most dedicated correspondents, known for his in-depth field reports and his ability to bring complex issues to the public in an understandable and impactful way.

His long-standing career in journalism has been marked by consistency, courage, and a deep passion for public interest reporting.

Mr. Tawiah was named the Best Illegal Mining TV Reporter, a recognition that further underscores his strong visual storytelling skills and his contribution to environmental journalism. These awards reaffirm the Ghana Journalists Association’s commitment to encouraging journalists to take on critical national issues such as illegal mining, corruption, education, and governance with diligence and objectivity.

The highly regarded ceremony, held on Saturday, November 8, 2025, brought together President John Mahama, the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, distinguished journalists, media owners, editors, government officials, and industry stakeholders to celebrate excellence and professionalism in Ghana’s media landscape.

The awards, which are considered the highest recognition for journalists in the country, sought to acknowledge exceptional work that has made meaningful contributions to national development and social accountability.

Mr. Tawiah’s achievement has been widely celebrated within the media fraternity as a victory not only for him but for all journalists who continue to risk their safety to expose wrongdoing and promote national development. His success serves as a reminder of the power of journalism to inspire change and to hold individuals and institutions accountable.

Through his impactful work, Ohemeng Tawiah continues to exemplify the true spirit of journalism, truth, courage, and service to society, cementing his place among Ghana’s most distinguished media professionals.

He was speaking at the 29th Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Media Awards on Saturday, November 8, at the Manhyia Palace.

President Mahama declared, “Let me be unequivocal: under my leadership, this government will neither sanction nor tolerate any form of intimidation, interference, or attacks on journalists.”

He explained that steps were already being taken to improve collaboration between the media and security agencies.

Mahama added that he had instructed the Minister for Government Communications and the Minister for National Security to establish a permanent engagement platform to promote dialogue and prevent future conflicts.

“I have directed the Minister responsible for Government Communications and the Minister for National Security to create a permanent forum for constructive engagement between the security services and the media. This will foster mutual respect and prevent such future incidents,” he said.

Addressing the event held under the theme “Self-Guarding Ghana: The Role of the Media in Promoting Security and Peace,” President Mahama reaffirmed his vision to restore the atmosphere of media freedom that characterized Ghana’s democracy prior to 2017.

“My administration has chosen the path of restoring the spirit of pre-2017 Ghana, when freedom of expression, institutional respect, and journalistic safety defined our democratic experience,” he noted.

He also provided updates on investigations into incidents of violence against journalists and civilians during the 2020 and 2024 elections, which led to injuries and loss of life.

“I’m pleased to report that the investigations are complete. A total of 21 individuals have been identified. Four have been arrested and released on bail, five remain on remand, and warrants have been issued for the remaining suspects. The Attorney General is currently reviewing the reports to determine appropriate legal action and compensation for victims or their families,” President Mahama stated.

He assured that justice would be pursued in accordance with due process, emphasizing that “The victims deserve closure, and the perpetrators will face the consequences of their actions.”

While underscoring his government’s dedication to press freedom, President Mahama urged journalists to uphold professionalism and responsibility in their work.

“Freedom must be balanced with responsibility. The credibility of journalism depends on integrity, accuracy, and fairness. Too often, the rush to break a story first results in unverified publications that damage reputations,” he cautioned.

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The awards, which celebrate excellence in journalism and recognise media organisations for their contributions to national development, have been hosted in Accra for the past 28 years.

GJA President Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, speaking during a meeting with President John Dramani Mahama on Friday, September 5, 2025, said the 29th edition of the awards will be hosted by Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.

“The GJA award has been held in Accra for 28 years. This year, after consultations with key stakeholders, we have decided to move it to Kumasi, and I am excited to inform you that His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has agreed to host the ceremony at Manhyia,” Mr. Dwumfour stated.

Scheduled for late October or early November, the ceremony will honour journalists across categories including Health, Education, Sports, Entertainment, Investigative Journalism, Gender, Environment, and Science and Technology reporting.

Source: AdomOnline

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The prestigious event, held on Saturday, September 28, 2024, recognised his exceptional journalistic skills and potential within the media industry.

Mr Yeboah, who recently graduated from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology pursued his studies while actively contributing to MGL’s journalism, and impressed the GJA panel with his insightful stories, investigative flair, and commitment to journalistic integrity.

His work has consistently demonstrated a strong grasp of storytelling and research, setting him apart from his peers.

In his acceptance speech, Clinton Yeboah expressed gratitude to the GJA, his lecturers, and MGL for their guidance and support.

He dedicated the award to aspiring young journalists, encouraging them to pursue their passions with diligence and dedication, regardless of the challenges.

The 28th GJA Media Awards celebrated excellence in various categories, with Clinton Yeboah’s win as Best Student Journalist reaffirming the association’s commitment to nurturing young talents who will shape the future of journalism in Ghana.

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The prestigious event, held on Saturday, September 28, 2024, honoured Adeti for his remarkable contributions to journalism, particularly in investigative reporting, which has had a significant impact on Ghana’s media landscape.

Mr Adeti has earned a reputation for his fearless and thorough investigative work, often exposing corruption and misconduct in both public and private sectors.

His stories have brought about critical reforms and increased public awareness of issues that affect the country’s governance and accountability structures.

This recognition as Journalist of the Year cements his position as one of Ghana’s leading journalists.

In his acceptance speech, Mr Adeti expressed deep gratitude to the GJA, his colleagues, and his audience.

He dedicated the award to all journalists who continue to fight for truth and justice despite the challenges and risks involved in their work.

Mr Adeti also reaffirmed his commitment to using his platform to hold power to account and advocate for transparency in governance.

The 28th GJA Media Awards celebrated excellence across various categories, with Edward Adeti’s recognition as P.V. Ansah Journalist of the Year standing out as a testament to the crucial role investigative journalism plays in promoting accountability and democracy in Ghana.

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He beat 7 other journalists in the region to win the award. Apart from being the overall winner, he also won the best health reporter in the region.

In 2018, Rafiq was adjudged the best journalist in a feature story in the northern sector of the country on the SNV Voice for Change Programme.

The maiden Upper West Region Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) 2023 best journalist awards brought together major stakeholders in the media space in the country to award journalists who have excelled in the previous year in their field of work.

Two senior journalists who are on retirement were also honoured with citations for their contribution to the development of the media in the region. It was held on the theme, “Sustaining Ghana’s Democracy Before, During and After The 2024 Elections: The Role of Peace Journalism.

Two stories presented by the ace journalist won him the award. The first was the malfunctioning theatre lamp at the Wa West district hospital which forced doctors at the facility to operate using mobile torchlights to perform surgeries.

Rafiq Salam brought the issue to the limelight resulting in the Edward Boakye Trust Fund donating thirty-five thousand Ghana cedis for the health facility to procure 2 theatre lamps.

The second was his story about Memuna Bakuri, who was spotted by the reporter working as a bar attendant to enable her to pay 50 Ghana cedis for exam registration.

Memuna missed the chance to write the West African Senior High School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) in 2018 due to her inability to pay the 50 Ghana cedis registration fee.

Rafiq Salam’s report again brought the issue to the limelight and resulted in her receiving support from United Kingdom-based Ghanaians, Beverly Oderson, her daughter, Ella Oderson and a former Wa High Court supervising judge, Justice Kwasi Boakye.

They did not only pay the fees but took care of Memuna Bakuri even upon completion, paying for the full cost of learning a trade to become a fashion designer where she passed out with distinction in December last year.

Rafiq Salam thanked his employer the Multimedia Group Limited for the opportunity to work and change the lives of the people. He also thanked his team in Wa, describing them as his backbone.

He also thanked his wife, Hajia Princess Shahida Seidu Braimah for always supporting him on the job.

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The committee members include:

– Jamila Akweley Okertchiri, Editor, Daily Guide Network
– Loretta Vanderpuye, Regional Director, Ghana Broadcasting Corporation Obonu FM / TV
– Joana Afua Mensah, News Editor, United Television (UTV)
– Isaac Yeboah, Editor, Myjoyonline.com
– William A. Asiedu, Head of News, 3FM and Co-host, Sunrise Morning Show on TV3
– Nana Kofi Acquah, International Photojournalist
– Michael Quaye, Deputy News Editor, Daily Graphic
– Isaac Nuamah Yeboah, News Director, Atinka Media Village

The committee is tasked with selecting winners in 36 award categories for this year’s ceremony, set to take place at the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC) on September 28, 2024.

For the first time, the Akoto Ampaw Award for Democracy & Good Governance will be presented. This award honours the late legal practitioner for his commitment to media freedom.

Key awards include the prestigious P. A. V. Ansah Journalist of the Year, Best Female Journalist of the Year, Most Promising Journalist of the Year, and Best Student Journalist of the Year.

This year’s awards will mark the climax of the GJA’s 75th Anniversary, promising a grand event with national and international dignitaries in attendance.

The submission of entries for the awards was opened on Monday, June 10, 2024 and was scheduled to close on Sunday, July 7, 2024.

However, the National Executive has extended the deadline for one week, after which no further extension will be extended.

Only members of the GJA in good standing are eligible to participate in the awards and are required to submit works published in 2023.

Entries are to be submitted strictly online, and the address for the platform for the submission is: https://portal.gjaghana.org

In an earlier press statement, the General Secretary for the GJA, Kofi Yeboah said “This year’s GJA Media Awards will also climax activities marking the 75^th Anniversary of the Association and so it promises to be grand”.

Find details of the entry requirements and rules below:

• The competition is open to members in good standing who are working in the print (including news agency), electronic and online media in Ghana.
• Members of the National Executive and the GJA Media Awards Committee are not eligible to contest.
• Entries should cover works published from January1, 2023 to December 31, 2023.
• Entrants may submit entries for a maximum of two award divisions, and not more than two published works should be submitted for each award division.
• However, one work shall not be entered in more than one award division.
• Entrants should submit clear, original published work of each entry.
• Entrants must upload a clear passport size photo for their entries.
• Student journalists must upload a scanned copy of their Student ID Card for their entries.
• Entrants are advised to secure strong Internet connection to ensure easy and fast uploading of entries.
• Entries are open from June 10, 2024 to Sunday, July 7, 2024 (1159hrs).
• Entries/Nominations should be titled ‘GJA MEDIA AWARDS 2024’
• The GJA is NOT bound to give an award in a division if it does not merit one.
• The Awards Committee shall select the overall best story from the various awards divisions for consideration by the National Executive as winner of the P. A. V. Ansah Journalist of the Year; Best Female Journalist of the Year; Komla Dumor Most Promising Journalist of the Year, and Best Student Journalist of the Year.
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In addition, Mr Asare Donkor, who is an Assisting News Editor, also received an award for the Best Reporter on Illegal Mining.

The award was for his exceptional reports and documentaries on ‘galamsey’ and its effects on the country’s human and natural resources.

The National Communications Officer, Sammy Gyamfi took to Facebook to eulogise Mr Donkor following the event which was held on Sunday.

On behalf of the NDC, Sammy Gyamfi described Erastus as a standard-bearer and urged him to continue his good works.

“Undoubtedly, this award will motivate and encourage him and others like him to sustain the fight to protect and preserve our environment, from wanton destruction by a few greedy persons,” he wrote.

He stated that, the award is a testament to Erastus’ relentless devotion to the fight against illegal mining and its debilitating impact on Ghana’s environment.

“At the very peril of his life and sometimes in the face of intimidation from the powers that be, Erastus Asare Donkor took his lenses into various forest reserves and hard-to-reach places to expose the underbelly of the galamsey menace that has assumed alarming proportions under the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia administration,” he added.

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Below is Sammy Gyamfi’s post:

The multiple award-winning investigative journalist with Corruption Watch made history at the ceremony which took place on Sunday at the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC).

The theme for this year’s event is: “Leveraging Media Freedom to Sustain the Democratic and Security Architecture: The Litmus Test of Election 2024.”

Mrs Enchill is the first ever female in the history of the GJA to win the category and for a consecutive time.

Aside winning the category in 2021, she was also the Female Journalist of the Year.

With the presence of a few women in the field, Francisca Enchill, who has over eight years of experience in the field, won the award due to her stellar journalistic work.

It was in recognition of her investigative piece, Pay or Die: The Agony of Pregnant Women in Hospitals, which in June 2021 attracted attention both locally and internationally from Germany-based DW TV’s AfricaLink.

In March 2022, she was shortlisted for the 2022 BBC World News Komla Dumor Award.

Francisca also made the list of 25 finalists for the 2022 edition of the prestigious West Africa Media Excellence Awards (WAMECA 2022) in October.

Subsequently, she won bronze in the television category at the Norbert Zongo African Prize for Investigative Journalism  (PAJI-NZ) 2023, held in Burkina Faso in October 2023.

Her story titled Pay Or Die… The Agony of Pregnant Women in Hospitals was adjudged the 3rd best investigative report with a Bronze prize package of 250,000 CFA Franc.

She has a number of works to her credit including Humans for Sale among others with several of them also being published on Adomonline.com.

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This year’s award, on the theme, “Leveraging Media Freedom to Sustain the Democratic and Security Architecture: The Litmus Test of Election 2024” had the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission Jean Mensa as the guest speaker.

In all, the nominees span across 34 categories including the ultimate award winner, P.A.A Ansah Journalist of the Year, which went to Multimedia’s Group Erastus Asare Donkor.

Aside from winning the ultimate award on the night, Mr Asare Donkor, an Assisting News Editor, also received an award for the Best Reporter on Illegal Mining.

The award was for his exceptional reports and documentaries on ‘galamsey’ and its effects on the country’s human and natural resources.

Below is the full list of award winners:

1. Anthony Adongo Apubeo (GNA) – Education
2. Beatrice Senadju (GBC) – Health
3. Della Russel Ocloo (Daily Graphic) – Agric & food security
4. Vivian Adu (Atinka Media) – Gender
5. Newsfile (Joy FM) – Radio Programme (English)
6. Fred Duhoe (CitiTV) – News (Television)
7. Akua Oforiwa Darko (GBC) – Environment & Science
8. Gifty Adjei (GBC) – Features (TV)
9. Alberto Mario Noretti (The Mirror) – News (Print)
10. Seth Bokpe (The Fourth Estate) – Democracy and Good Governance
11. Emma Davies (MultiMedia Group) – Business/economics
12. Mohammed Fugu (Daily Graphic) – Domestic Tourism
13. Kweku Bolton (GBC) – Arts & Entertainment
14. Francisca Enchill (Joynews, Freelance) – Investigative Journalist
15. Edward Adeti (The Fourth Estate/Media without Borders) – Crime/Court
16. Erastus Asare Donkor (Multimedia Group) – Illegal Mining (TV)
17. Emmanuel Dzivenu (Joy Prime) – Disability
18. Eric Mensah-Ayettey (Myjoyonline) – Columnist
19. Efia Akese (The Mirror) – Features (Print)
20. Kester Aburam Korankye (Daily Graphic) – Road safety
21. Daily Graphic – Newspaper layout
22. Efisem (Atinka Media) – Radio Programme (Gh Language)
23. Ridwan Karim Dini-Osman (EIB network) – Feature (Radio)
24. Felix Dela Klutse (Pent Media Centre) – Features (online)
25. Neta Kris Abiana Parsram (Multimedia Group) – Most promising journalist
26. Doreen Ampofo (GBC) – Documentary (Radio)
27. Godwin Asediba (Media General) – Documentary (TV)
28. Collincia Ayifa (via Multimedia Group) – Student journalist (UCC)
29. Critical Issues – UTV (TV Programme, Gh Language)
30. Media General – TV Programme (English)
31. P.A.V Ansah Journalist of the year, 2022 – Erastus Asare Donkor (Multimedia Group)

Erastus Asare Donkor of Joy News, Joy FM and Luv FM, won the covetous award with his works on the devastating effects of illegal mining that have ignited national conversations.

In the citation, the GJA commended Mr Asare for his significant contributions to national development.

“You demonstrated outstanding quality in journalism standards in the year 2022, capping it with the three-part destruction-for-gold documentary. In that work, you exposed the greed and some characters behind the wanton destruction of the environment.

There is no doubt that you served your country in this way, bringing attention to a menace threatening to consume the nation.

For your sterling journalistic work and the boldness you exhibited in the discharge of a cardinal duty in the interest of the nation, the Ghana Journalists Association is proud to honour you with the PAV Ansah Journalist of the Year Award.”

Aside from winning the ultimate award on the night, Mr Asare Donkor, an Assisting News Editor, also received an award for the Best Reporter on Illegal Mining. The award was for his exceptional reports and documentaries on ‘galamsey’ and its effects on the country’s human and natural resources.

The Multimedia Group grabbed seven more awards on the night.

Collincia Ayifa was awarded Student Journalist, while Ghana’s most authoritative news analysis show, Newsfile, also won an award.

Again, Emma Davis took home the Business and Economic Reporter of the year.

Also, Emmanuel Dzivenu won the award for Disability reporting and Neta Kris Abiana Parsram won the Komla Dumor Most Promising Journalist of the Year award.

Lastly, Francisca Enchil won the Female Journalist of the Year award while Eric Mensah-Ayettey, formerly of MyJoyOnline, took home the Columnist of the Year award.

According to her, it behoves media practitioners to be responsible in the discharge of their duties during the period to safeguard the nation’s democracy and national security.

She made these assertions while delivering the keynote address at the 27th edition of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Awards which was themed: “Leveraging Media Freedom to Sustain the Democratic and Security Architecture: The Litmus Test of Election 2024.”

“The exercise of your power and freedom in the lead-up to the 2024 election could potentially make or break our nation’s cohesion. This is a sobering truth.

“Therefore, your commitment to ensuring the peace and security of our country as we go to the polls in December 2024, should go beyond mere rhetoric to practicing responsible journalism,” she said on Sunday.

Madam Mensa further highlighted the significance of the 2024 election.

In her view, since it involves an open contest with no incumbent seeking re-election, the stakes are high adding that “the 2024 elections will be more than a democratic exercise, it will be a test of our nation’s resilience.”

It is on the back of this that she asked journalists to be circumspect in their coverage.

She acknowledged that journalists possess the power to reach the ears, eyes, and hearts of the citizenry and are a stone’s throw from millions of homes across the country. Thus, it is of utmost importance for journalists to be aware of the delicate balance required between media freedom, democracy, and national security.

Madam Mensa emphasised the weight of responsibility that journalists carry, describing them as the Fourth Estate, not merely a facet of the nation’s democracy, but its bedrock.

“You’re the beacon of truth, you’re the guidance of transparency, and you’re the vanguards of freedom and catalyst for informing and shaping public debate. With your role and the nation’s support and protection comes great responsibility.

In all, 31 awards were presented on the night, with the Multimedia Group picking multiple awards including the overall journalist of the year.

Erastus Asare Donkor of Joy News, Joy FM and Luv FM, won the covetous award with his works on the devastating effects of illegal mining that have ignited national conversations.

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The theme for this year’s event is: “Leveraging Media Freedom to Sustain the Democratic and Security Architecture: The Litmus Test of Election 2024.”

The nominee list was released after vetting by a nine-member awards committee chaired by Madam Betty Oppong-Appau. In all 129 individuals are battling it out for 34 categories of the awards.

For this year’s awards, the GJA received entries from 129 individuals, including 15 students, and 16 entries from media houses.

The entries covered 83 specific, award categories.

According to the committee, four of the 34 categories failed to produce a deserving winner for this year’s awards.

A story is eligible for nomination if it meets the eligibility criteria of Captivating headlines, Good introductions, Multiple sourcing and interviews, Coherent presentations, Verified facts and data references Excellent language, and Balanced work.

Two more awards, namely the GJA Female Journalist of the Year and the ultimate and prestigious GJA Journalist of the Year Award, complete the list of honors to be conferred at Sunday’s event.

However, four categories: sports, online news, radio news, and photojournalism, did not meet the criteria for the awards and did not produce winners in that regard.

The Multimedia Group’s personalities nominated for the ceremony are Emma Davies, Francisca Enchil, Erastus Asare Donko, Emmanuel Dzivenu, Eric Mensah-Ayettey, Collincia Ayifa, Neta Kris Abiana Parsram, Joyfm/Joy News.

Find the full list of nominees here:

Anthony Adongo Apubeo – GNA
Beatrice Senadju – GBC
Della Russel Ocloo – Daily Graphic
Vivian Adu – Atinka Media
Joyfm/Joy News
Fred Duhoe – CitiTV
Akua Oforiwa Darko – GBC
Gifty Adjei – GBC
Alberto Mario Noretti – The Mirror
Seth Bokpe – The Fourth Estate
Emma Davies – MultiMedia Group
Mohammed Fugu – Daily Graphic
Kweku Bolton – GBC
Francisca Enchil – Freelance, via Joynews
Edward Adeti – The Fourth Estate/Media without Borders
Erastus Asare Donkor – The Multimedia Group
Emmanuel Dzivenu – Joy Prime
Eric Mensah-Ayettey – Myjoyonline
Efia Akese – The Mirror
Kester Aburam Korankye – Daily Graphic
Daily Graphic
Atinka Media
Ridwan Karim Dini-Osman – EIB network
Felix Dela Klutse – Pent Media Centre
Neta Kris Abiana Parsram – Multimedia Group
Doreen Ampofo – GBC
Godwin Asediba – Media General
Collincia Ayifa – Student journalist via Multimedia Group
UTV

A press release signed by the General Secretary, Kofi Yeboah, and copied to the Ghana News Agency (GNA), said the event would take place at the Accra International Conference Centre at 1500 GMT.  

The prestigious event would honour excellence and outstanding contributions within the media industry. 

The theme this year is: “Leveraging media freedom to sustain the democratic and security architecture: The litmus test of Election 2024”. 

According to the release, the event would attract over 1,000 attendees, comprising Ministers of State, Members of Parliament, members of the Diplomatic Corps, representatives from local and international media partners, corporate representatives, and members of the Journalism community. 

The ceremony, as stated in the release, will be presided over by the Chairman of the National Peace Council, Rev Dr Ernest Adu Gyamfi, with Mrs Jean Mensa, the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, delivering the keynote address. 

Prominent figures expected to attend as invited guests of honour include the Minister for Information, Kojo Opong Nkrumah, the Chairman of the National Media Commission, Yaw Boadu-Ayeboafo, and the US Ambassador to Ghana, H. E. Virginia E. Palmer. 

The release assured that this year’s Awards would bring a unique and distinctive experience, departing from the late-night format of previous editions. 

The statement conveyed the National Executive’s gratitude to the sponsors of this year’s event. 

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This is the first time a journalist has won the coveted award after the first edition in 2019.

His documentary, “A Dam of Promises” which tracked the progress of work on the Pwalugu Multipurpose dam also won him the Best Agriculture Reporter award.

He also walked away as the Best Human Rights Reporter based on his news feature which threw the spotlight on a rape victim whose family didn’t want to pursue justice because the alleged rapist was an important personality in the community.

Albert Sore is known for reporting on many social-interest stories from rural and hard-to-reach communities in the Upper East region. 

Subsequently, he has won many awards for his impactful work as a journalist mainly in the Upper East Region, spanning many years.

Other awardees for the night were Anthony Adongo Apubeo (Ghana News Agency), Castro Senyalah (Asaase Radio), Nicholas Azebire (Dreamz FM), Moses Apiah (A1 Radio), and Simon Agana Blessing (Word FM).

The rest are Joshua Asaah (A1 Radio), Chidozie Stephen (ApexNewsGh), Nelson Abagna (GBC URA Radio) and David Azure (A1 Radio).

Speaking at the event, the Regional Chairman for GJA , William Jalulah charged journalists in the region to take up more challenging stories.

This year’s event was under the theme: “Safeguarding the Peace and Security of the Upper East Region: The Role of the Media.”

It was sponsored by WaterAid Ghana under their SHARE project.

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Submission of entries for the awards was originally scheduled to close at 5pm on Wednesday, September 13, 2023.

The GJA in a statement dated Tuesday, September 12, signed by its General Secretary, Kofi Yeboah, said the extension of the deadline was intended to give opportunity to many more members to submit their entries.

Below is the GJA statement

ACCRA, September 12, 2023 (GJA) – The National Executive of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has extended the deadline for the submission of entries for the 27th GJA Media Awards to Sunday, September 17, 2023, at 5pm.

Submission of entries for the awards was originally scheduled to close at 5pm on Wednesday, September 13, 2023, but the extension of deadline is intended to give opportunity to many more members to submit their entries.

The National Executive particularly encourages journalism and communication trainees in accredited training institutions to contest for the ‘Best Student-Journalist of the Year’ award by submitting their entries.

The awards are open for journalistic works done and published from January 1, 2022 to December 31, 2022.

This year, the GJA has introduced an online submission platform for entries, which is the first of its kind in the history of the annual flagship event of the Association.

Prospective entrants are requested to visit https://awards.gjaghana.org  to submit their entries.

Entrants who may have difficulty in submitting their entries are advised to contact the General Secretary on 024 427 5167 for assistance.

Meanwhile, the National Executive is appealing to media and donor partners, as well as Corporate Ghana, to lend their support to the organization of the awards by donating generously towards that noble cause.

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The event was held in Accra with 34 awards up for grabs.

The awards are open to members of the Association who work in the print, broadcast, and online media.

Albert Dwumfour, GJA President, speaking at the launch, urged journalists who meet the criteria set out by the Awards Committee to file their entries.

He also gave assurance that the process would be transparent and fair.

The prestigious Ghana Journalists Association Awards are organized annually to promote professional excellence and high journalistic standards.

Entries for the awards will cover works published from January 2022 to December 2022 for members in good standing with regards to the payment of dues.

The award categories include the Best in News Reporting, Features, Documentaries, Columnists, and Best Journalists in specific areas, such as sports, health, education, investigative journalism, arts, and entertainment, among others. Moreover, special awards will also be given to journalists who report on areas such as disability and road safety.

President Dwumfour mentioned that with the approaching general election, journalists need to be well-prepared to provide extensive, thorough, and impartial election coverage. The award features some innovation this year, according to Mr. Dwumfour.

Moreover, Executive Director of EOCO, COP Maame Tiwaa Addo Dankwa, addressed the audience and stressed that fighting crime is a collective responsibility. She urged everyone to join together against all forms of crime, including organized ones.

The awards entry is open for three weeks and will close on September 13, this year. Entries can be submitted through email: awards.gjaghana.org.

The awards event is scheduled for October 28, 2023, at the Accra International Conference Centre.

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Out of a total of eight nominations that the company received, seven came home through the hard work and diligence of both management and staff.

While Best TV Programme in English went to Newsfile, which is aired on both JoyNews and JoyFM, Emmanuel Koranteng from the newroom was awarded the Komla Dumor Most Promising Journalist of the Year.

For the Business and Economics category, Daryl Kwawu with the JoyNews Business Unit took home an award for his story – The unemployment challenge.

This was followed by another prestigious award going to Solomon Joojo Cobbinah for his documentary – Searching for the witch hunters.

Again, Richard Kwadwo Nyarko took away an award in the Agriculture category while Francisca Enchill (Joy Prime/ Freelance) was recognised for her investigative piece, Pay or die: Agony of pregnant women in hospitals.

Madam Francisca was also named the Best Female Journalist for the Year.

This honour comes less than two weeks after the organisers of the 33^rd CIMG Annual Marketing Performance Awards recognised Multimedia Group for its contribution to the industry.

Erastus Asare Donkor of the Kumasi unit of The Multimedia Group was honoured for the documentary that highlighted the devastating effects of the ‘galamsey’ menace- ‘Destruction for Gold’.

The Group was also adjudged the ‘Media Organisation of the Year’, while its online platform, Myjoyonline, was awarded the ‘Online portal of the Year’.

Also, Drivetime on Joy FM won the ‘Radio Programme of the Year.’

The awards ceremony was held under the theme, “Creative Marketing and Innovation in a volatile global economy.” It was also in respect of the year 2021.

More photos below:

The event will take place at the Kempinski Gold Coast Hotel, Accra.

The GJA President, Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen, said the awards scheme has become highly competitive.

“Twenty-five competitive awards are up for grabs from several journalists around Ghana in recognition of their hard work and their impact on society,” he said.

Mr Dwumfour also touted this year’s edition as the best ever to be held in the history of the GJA Awards programme.

The President attributed the success to some strategic initiatives the national executive took ahead of the ceremony.

“We set up the awards review Committee who reviewed the nature of the award categories slashing it from over 50 categories to 37. Though they had a limited time, they delivered an excellent job,” he explained.

The theme for this year’s awards which happens to be the 26th edition is, Walking the path towards economic recovery: The role of the Media.

Meanwhile, seven journalists working with The Multimedia Group have been nominated for the 2021 awards.

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They include Solomon Joojo Cobbinah, Daryl Kwahu, Richard Kwadwo Nyarko, Alfred Amoh, Erastus Asare Donkor and Emmanuel Koranteng.