Accra: The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) on Thursday launched the 29th edition of the Media Awards in Accra, aimed at rewarding excellence, creativity, and hard work in journalism. This year’s event will be held on November 8 at the Manhyia Palace, Kumasi, marking the first time the prestigious national event will be held outside Accra, a symbolic decision to ensure inclusivity.

According to Ghana News Agency, the ceremony also saw the inauguration of two committees: the Awards and Planning committees, tasked with ensuring the appropriate selection of awardees and the organization of the ceremony. The event is themed ‘Safeguarding Ghana’s future: The role of the media in promoting peace, security, and the fight against Galamsey.’

Mr. Felix Ofosu Kwakye, the Minister of State in charge of Government Communication, launched the awards and described the move as a long-overdue step towards greater inclusivity. He noted that the event’s historical concentration in Accra had under-represented members residing elsewhere, expressing delight at the decision to host the event in Kumasi this year.

The Minister assured the government’s commitment to be fully represented at the ceremony, under the royal patronage of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, and pledged support to make this year’s celebration successful. He congratulated the GJA for sustaining the awards over nearly three decades and emphasized the importance of adapting to the evolving media landscape, recognizing emerging forms of journalism shaped by social media and technology.

The Minister acknowledged the role of digital content creators and urged the GJA to integrate such practitioners through mentorship and training. He highlighted the necessity of regulation without infringing on journalistic freedoms amid rising threats and misinformation via social media.

Mr. Albert Dwumfour, the President, GJA, described the upcoming awards as a ‘royal and national celebration.’ He emphasized that the awards reaffirm the mission of journalists to serve the public with truth, integrity, and accountability. He noted that the decision to host the awards in Kumasi was symbolic of inclusivity and praised the Asantehene for embodying values central to responsible journalism.

The GJA President announced that accommodation and transportation would be fully provided for over 500 journalists traveling to Kumasi, ensuring nationwide participation. He called for continued support from corporate Ghana, acknowledging the invaluable sponsorship from KGL Group of Companies and Alisa Hotel.

The awards weekend will include a welcome reception and a health walk, culminating in the main awards ceremony at the Manhyia Palace. A royal dinner reception hosted by the Asantehene will honor award winners and guests. The nine-member awards committee, chaired by Mr. Gabriel Bosompem, includes distinguished media professionals committed to the event’s success.