?Central Region GJA Launches Awards

By David O. Yarboi-Tetteh

Cape Coast — The Central Region branch of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has launched its maiden media awards to recognise journalists for their service to the region and the nation in general.

Journalists who would distinguish themselves in their profession would receive awards in various categories, including: news reporting and features, agriculture, environment and sanitation, education, health, tourism and culture, rural reporting and Small and Medium Enterprises.

The launch coincided with the regional celebration of the World Press Freedom Day.

The GJA president, Mr Roland Affail Monney, appealed to the National Communications Authority (NCA) not to carry out acts that would affect the nation's pluralistic media.

The GJA, he said, would adhere to the laws governing the state, and asked the NCA to consider the nation's interest before taking decision to close radio stations that fail in complying with regulations.

Mr Monney commended the Central Region executives of GJA for initiating the awards, which according to him would motivate journalists to work harder.

He appealed to individuals and institutions in the region to support the awards, and asked journalists to register as members of the association.

Mr Monney commended the Central Regional Co-ordinating Council for supporting journalists.

The Deputy Central Regional Minister, Thomas Agyei Baffoe, who launched the awards, asked journalists to be guided by ethics of their profession.

Mr Baffoe urged journalists to sustain their support for the democratic process in the country.

The Chairman of the Central Region branch of the GJA, Mrs Alice Tettey, asked journalists to protect the nation's democracy and not to do anything that would result in chaos.

"As the nation prepares for Election 2020, journalists should not to engage in acts that would mar the peace in the country," she advised.

Mrs Tettey said, "The awards will bring out the best in us, as we continue to work in ensuring the development of the Central Region and the nation in general."The Krontihemaa of the Oguaa Traditional Area, Nana Amba Eyiaba II, urged journalists to present accurate and unbiased reportage.

She said, "Journalists should be responsible in their reportage, and support efforts aimed at ensuring national transformation."

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