The Ghana Journalists Association has celebrated some of Ghana’s most influential journalists, academics, diplomats, institutions, and national figures for their contributions toward defending press freedom and strengthening democratic governance, while also calling for urgent reforms to better protect journalists across the country.
The recognition took place during the 2nd Ghana Journalists Association World Press Freedom Day Honours Night held at the Alisa Hotel under the global theme: “Shaping a Future at Peace: Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Development and Security.”
The event brought together senior government officials, veteran journalists, diplomats, traditional leaders, civil society organisations, development partners, and media practitioners to celebrate individuals and institutions whose work has advanced freedom of expression, ethical journalism, accountability, and democratic stability in Ghana.
Among the dignitaries present were Deputy Chief of Staff, Nana Oye Bampoe-Addo Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations Samuel Nartey George, Minister for Government Communications Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, and UNESCO Representative Edmond Moukala.
The ceremony honoured veteran broadcaster Alhaji Abdul-Rahman Harruna Attah for his immense contribution to journalism and public discourse in Ghana.
Lawyer and Broadcast Journalist Samson Lardy Anyenini was also honoured.
Retired judge Justice Kwame Afreh received honours for his contribution to Ghana’s legal and constitutional development, while veteran sports journalist Kwabena Yeboah was celebrated for decades of excellence in sports broadcasting.
Former diplomat Ambassador Gina Blay and traditional ruler Nana Kwame Korang IV were also recognised for their contributions to media development, governance and national development.
Other honourees included veteran journalist Kofi Badu, former security capo and Information Minister under the Rawlings Regime Kofi Totobi Quakyi, Media General CEO, Beatrice Agyemang, Despite Media CEO, Fada Dickson Narh, and communications strategist Ken Ansah.
International personalities honoured included Dr. Camel Nasser Adam and Hussein Gingi for their contributions toward international cooperation and democratic governance.
Institutions recognised during the ceremony included the Bank of Ghana, Ghana News Agency, Graphic Communications Group, The Catholic Standard and Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City.
Delivering the keynote address, GJA President Albert Kwabena Dwumfour warned that although Ghana has improved significantly in the 2026 World Press Freedom Index by moving from 52nd to 39th position globally and ranking fourth in Africa, journalists continue to face serious threats.
According to him, the threats confronting journalists have evolved beyond direct censorship to include Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPP suits), digital surveillance, intimidation, misinformation, online harassment, and economic pressures on media houses.
Mr. Dwumfour stressed that democracy cannot flourish where journalists operate under fear and intimidation.
He further criticised the alleged abuse of certain provisions within the Electronic Communications Act, warning that some sections are increasingly being weaponised against journalists and critical voices.
The GJA President also called for broader stakeholder consultation on the proposed Government Communications Bill and Misinformation and Disinformation Bill to ensure that the laws do not undermine freedom of expression and constitutional rights.
He reaffirmed the GJA’s commitment to defending press freedom, promoting ethical journalism, and advocating stronger legal protection and welfare support for journalists across the country.
Mr. Dwumfour urged government, civil society organisations, media owners, and development partners to continue supporting responsible journalism and democratic governance in Ghana.
