Author: Peter Martey Agbeko, APR
On the occasion of World Press Freedom Day (WPFD) 2025, the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) proudly honoured 24 distinguished individuals and institutions for their exceptional contributions to the advancement of press freedom, media development, and their enduring partnership with the journalism profession in Ghana.
This year’s event marks a departure from the annual daytime flag-raising ceremony at the Forecourt of the Ghana International Press Centre, usually held to commemorate WPFD. The innovation is designed to use the occasion of WPFD to recognise and honour the recipients.
Global and National Themes
Global Theme: “Reporting in the Brave New World: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media”
National Theme: “Celebrating Champions of Press Freedom and Ghana’s Media Growth: Building a Resilient Media in the AI Era”
Proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in 1993, following a UNESCO recommendation, WPFD is marked annually on 3 May. It commemorates the Windhoek Declaration and underscores the global importance of press freedom and journalist safety.
Navigating Press Freedom in the Age of AI
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly reshaping journalism and the media landscape, introducing both opportunities and risks. While AI can enhance news gathering and dissemination, it also raises serious concerns, including the spread of disinformation, online abuse, and algorithmic censorship. Balancing innovation with press freedom requires collective responsibility from all media stakeholders.
Commemorative Event Highlights
The 2025 commemorative event was held on 2 May at the Alisa Hotel in Accra. It brought together generations of journalists, government officials, business leaders, civil society representatives, and members of the public in a spirited celebration of courage, innovation, and the enduring fight for media freedom.
Presidential Address Delivered by Hon. Felix Kwakye Ofosu
President John Dramani Mahama, originally scheduled as Special Guest of Honour, was represented by Hon. Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister in Charge of Government Communications.
In his keynote address, Mr. Kwakye Ofosu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to press freedom, journalist safety, and responsible technology integration. He acknowledged Ghana’s dip in global press freedom rankings due to “unwarranted attacks on journalists, media closures, and intimidation,” describing journalist protection as a “sacred constitutional duty.”
He warned of new threats from disinformation, stating that it could “trigger discord, deepen polarisation, and manipulate public perception.” He urged the media to adhere to ethical journalism and maintain independence from corporate or political influence.
He commended the awardees, especially the Journalist of the Year, and saluted the veteran journalists who laid the foundation for today’s press freedom. Concluding, he said:
“Let us reaffirm our belief in a democratic Ghana where journalists work without fear, technology uplifts the truth, and the media stands strong as a pillar of the Republic.”
GJA President Albert Kwabena Dwumfour’s Remarks
GJA President Albert Kwabena Dwumfour delivered a powerful address calling for structural reforms to sustain ethical, independent journalism in Ghana. He stressed that press freedom should not “swing with political cycles,” but be rooted in law, civic vigilance, and a culture of openness.
He advocated for investment in journalist welfare, skills development, and a regulatory environment that encourages innovation. He praised the implementation of the Right to Information Act and other reforms that enhance public access to credible information.
Mr. Dwumfour reaffirmed the GJA’s dedication to recognising excellence, protecting journalists, and promoting a resilient and ethical media ecosystem in Ghana.
Honourees: Celebrating Excellence
Category 1: Press Freedom Promoters
Eight eminent individuals were honoured for their pioneering roles in championing press freedom:
Amb. Kabral Blay-Amihere – Founding advocate for an independent journalists’ association and national Press Centre.
Gifty Afenyi-Dadzie, Esq. – First female GJA President; trailblazer for women in journalism.
Dr. Charles Wereko-Brobby – Founder of Ghana’s first private radio station, Radio Eye.
Prof. Kwame Karikari – Renowned press freedom advocate and founder of MFWA.
Ajoa Yeboah-Afari – Veteran editor and advocate for journalistic integrity.
Kwesi Pratt Jnr. – Outspoken defender of journalists’ rights and public discourse.
Ben Ephson – Celebrated for over 51 years of committed, fearless journalism.
Elizabeth Ohene – Icon of principled journalism in Ghana and beyond.
Category 2: Media Developers
Six individuals and couples were honoured for nurturing the growth of the Ghanaian media:
Sir Sam Jonah – Major supporter of GJA initiatives and journalist development.
Bright Blewu – Longest-serving GJA General Secretary; delivered impactful reforms.
Kwasi Afriyie-Badu – Pioneered media training programmes and GJA structural support.
Cameron Duodu – Internationally respected journalist and media ethicist.
Dr. Chief Crystal-Djirackor – Founder of Crystal TV, Ghana’s private broadcasting pioneer.
Wilna & Alex Quarmyne – Founders of Radio Ada; champions of community radio in Ghana.
Category 3: Dedicated Partners
Seven organisations and individuals were recognised for their sustained partnership with the GJA and commitment to civic responsibility:
Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) – Longtime collaborator in development-focused journalism.
Embassy of the USA in Accra – Key supporter of media empowerment and training.
Unilever Ghana Limited – Title sponsor of GJA Awards and P. A. V. Ansah Prize.
Innolink – Partner in credible elections reporting and journalist training.
Electoral Commission of Ghana – Supporter of media transparency during elections.
Friedrich Ebert Foundation (FES) – Longtime advocate for media training and democratic dialogue.
Amakye Dede – Celebrated artist whose support elevated early GJA Awards ceremonies.
Acknowledging Sponsors
Special thanks to the following sponsors for supporting WPFD 2025:
KGL Group of Companies (Main Sponsor)
Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT)
National Communications Authority (NCA)
Ghana Gold Board
National Petroleum Authority
National Security
KGL Group Chairman’s Remarks
Mr. Alex Apau Dadey, Executive Chairman of KGL Group, delivered a keynote message underscoring the company’s commitment to supporting press freedom and media development in Ghana. He praised journalists for their role in shaping national consciousness and promoting democratic accountability, pledging continued support for initiatives that uphold the independence and vibrancy of the Ghanaian media.
Some awards were collected on behalf of recipients who were unable to attend the event.
