The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) pays solemn and heartfelt tribute to the memory of Madam Gloria Hiadzi, former Executive Secretary of the Ghana Independent Broadcasters Association (GIBA), a distinguished media administrator, principled advocate and steadfast defender of media freedom in Ghana.
Her passing is not merely the loss of a professional colleague within the media fraternity; it is the departure of a courageous and consistent voice for fairness, independence and responsibility in Ghana’s broadcasting landscape.
Gloria Hiadzi stood at the intersection of policy, practice, and principle and she navigated that space with uncommon clarity, conviction and grace.
As Executive Secretary of GIBA, she served with an unwavering commitment to the advancement of independent broadcasting in Ghana.
She understood that the airwaves are more than technical frequencies; they are platforms of democratic participation.
To her, broadcasting was about empowering communities, amplifying diverse voices and ensuring that citizens had access to credible and pluralistic sources of information. She devoted her professional life to strengthening this vision.
Gloria Hiadzi was a tireless advocate for media freedom and press freedom.
In times when regulatory uncertainty, economic constraints and political pressures threatened the vibrancy of the media space, she remained firm.
She consistently maintained that regulation must serve the public interest without suffocating independence.
She engaged state institutions and policymakers with respect, but never at the expense of principle.
She championed broadcasters’ rights with both courage and diplomacy.
She believed that independent broadcasters form a critical pillar of Ghana’s democratic architecture and must be protected from arbitrary actions and undue interference.
Through dialogue, consultation and sustained engagement, she worked to ensure fairness in licensing, transparency in policy implementation and recognition of the legitimate concerns of broadcasters across the country.
Beyond advocacy, Gloria Hiadzi was deeply committed to professionalism and capacity building within the media sector.
She recognized that media freedom thrives best when it is matched by ethical responsibility and professional competence.
She encouraged training initiatives, adherence to broadcasting standards, and continuous development within the industry.
To us at the GJA, she was more than a colleague; she was a trusted partner in the collective struggle to safeguard freedom of expression.
She believed strongly that journalists, editors, broadcasters and media owners share a common destiny.
When one segment of the media ecosystem is weakened, the entire democratic framework is diminished.
Conversely, when media freedom advances, it strengthens national development, accountability and peace. Gloria Hiadzi was also a bridge builder.
She fostered cooperation among media associations and encouraged constructive dialogue over confrontation. In moments of tension within the media landscape, she stood for engagement and understanding.
Under her stewardship, GIBA grew in visibility and influence within national discourse.
She did not treat her office as a ceremonial position; she embraced it as a responsibility to defend the collective interests of independent broadcasters.
Her administrative diligence and strategic insight strengthened the institutional capacity of the Association and enhanced its role in shaping conversations on broadcasting reform and media development.
As we mourn her passing, and observe her burial service on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at the Christ The King Catholic Church, we also celebrate a life dedicated to service.
We celebrate her steadfast advocacy for media freedom. We celebrate her defense of broadcasters’ rights.
The GJA extends its deepest condolences to her family, her colleagues and the entire broadcasting community. We stand in solidarity with all who feel the profound weight of this loss.
Though her voice may no longer echo in boardrooms, policy discussions and industry gatherings, her influence endures.
It lives on in the strengthened resolve of Ghana’s media fraternity to defend independence, uphold professionalism and protect the sacred space of free expression.
May her legacy inspire renewed unity within the media community.
May her life of service continue to guide our collective advocacy.
And may her soul rest in perfect peace.
SIGNED
Dominic Hlordzi
General Secretary
