By: Jeremiah Nutsugah
The Ghana Journalists Association launched its 75th Anniversary at Labadi Beach Hotel in Accra on Wednesday, March 17, 2024.
The theme for the occasion was “75 Years of Excellence in Journalism: Honoring the Past, Embracing the Present, Shaping the Future.”
Scheduled activities for the 75th launch include lectures on the theme of excellence in journalism, a symposium on the impact of art on the media, a legacy project involving people with disabilities, media interactions, time with veterans, regional seminars, and awards, culminating on the last day.
President of the Ghana Journalists Association, Mr. Albert Kwabena Dwumfuor emphasized the association’s commitment to contesting any laws that violate freedom of speech, deviating from the principles of the rule of law.
“In recent times, journalists and media outlets have been targeted by political hoodlums while on assignment. The GJA has no choice but to take aggressive actions to combat this breach of media rights.”
Dwumfuor mentioned, “There is also a worrying trend of unprofessional practices by a section of the media due to many factors, including lack of appreciation for professional ethics and media ownership.”
He further stated that the anniversary celebration would be used as a platform to address these pressing issues.
Sir Sam Jonah in his address, highlighted the polarized media landscape and urged Journalists to recommit themselves to professionalism in the national interest and development.
He emphasized the media’s role as the fourth estate, a cornerstone of the country’s democracy.
“As journalists, the times we live in call upon you to give your professional and ethical best. Let your pens and voices spread messages of peace,” he added.
The former Majority Leader of Parliament and Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Osei Kyei Mensah Bonsu encouraged journalists to bring their conscience to bare in their line of duty.
Among the dignitaries present at the launch were GJA President, Albert Kwabena Dwumfuor, the Special Guest of Honor, Minister of Works and Housing and Caretaker Minister for Information, Hon. Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, Executive Chairman of Jonah Capital, Sir Sam Jonah KBE, OSG, Former Majority Leader in Parliament, Hon. Osei Mensah Bonsu, and former Chairman of NMC, Nana Kwasi Gyan-Apenteng.
