The 29th Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Awards ceremony honored media excellence and recognized leaders’ efforts in promoting peace, security, and the fight against galamsey.
Held at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, the event was attended by dignitaries including former President John Dramani Mahama, Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, and IGP Christian Tetteh Yohunu.
GJA President Albert Kwabena Dwumfour emphasized peace as essential for national development and the galamsey fight. He praised President Mahama for nominating Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to lead Boko conflict mediation, ensuring relative calm. Dwumfour also commended IGP Yohunu for improving police-media relations.
The GJA honored Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II for contributions to democracy, peace, and the galamsey fight. He was recognized for destooling chiefs involved in illegal mining and championing sustainable development.
Asantehene’s Scathing Critique on Galamsey
In a powerful speech, Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II condemned galamsey, attributing inaction to politicians’ fear of losing votes. “It’s politics, it’s because of votes, nothing else,” he stated, challenging traditional leaders to act. He contrasted modern mining practices with historical methods, emphasizing environmental destruction.
The event celebrated journalistic excellence, recognizing 27 individual journalists and 7 media houses for responsible reporting. The GJA emphasized the media’s role in promoting peace, security, and the galamsey fight.
