In a remarkable moment of cultural and professional convergence, the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has honoured the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, for his extraordinary patronage and leadership role in the successful organisation of the 29th GJA Media Awards, which, for the first time in history, was hosted in Kumasi.
The grand event, held on November 8, 2025, at the Manhyia Palace, marked a significant milestone for Ghana’s media fraternity.
The decision to host the awards in the Ashanti Regional capital was widely viewed as an acknowledgement of the Asantehene’s long-standing commitment to national development, peace, and institutional discipline.
The King’s presence as Patron of the awards symbolised his continuing interest in the promotion of free speech, good governance, and responsible journalism.
In a show of appreciation, GJA President Albert Kwabena Dwumfour and President John Dramani Mahama jointly presented a citation and a symbolic artwork to Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
The citation lauded the Monarch for his “invaluable support” and highlighted how his stewardship continues to inspire social development through the Golden Stool’s influence.
“In our society and culture, we are taught to say thank you, irrespective of the size or volume of the gesture. Today, the GJA leadership proudly acknowledges this very important norm by expressing gratitude to His Majesty for his immense support,” said the GJA President during the presentation.
The statement further commended Otumfuo for his advocacy, moral authority, and firm disciplinary measures against traditional leaders found complicit in illegal mining activities, popularly known as galamsey.
“It means a great deal to us… We are grateful for your show of power and your stance on integrity in leadership,” it read.
The 29th edition of the GJA Awards was held under the theme: “Safeguarding Ghana’s Future: The Role of the Media in Promoting Peace, Security, and the Fight Against Galamsey.”
The event celebrated journalistic excellence across the country, honouring 29 outstanding reporters and seven media institutions for their contributions to the profession.
Among the individual awardees were Godwin Asediba of TV3, who was named 2024 Journalist of the Year, along with other notable winners such as Nabil Ahmed Rufai (Freelancer), Ridwan Karim Dini-Osman (EIB Network), Albert Oppong Ansah (GNA), Rachel Kakraba (GBC), and Sarah Apenkro (TV3). Others included Solomon Gumah (GNA), Masahudu Ankilu Kunateh (African Eye Report), and Muftau Nabila Abdulai (MyJoyOnline).
Media institutions such as Multimedia Group, Daily Graphic, Peace FM, Citi FM, GTV, UTV, Adom TV, and Joy FM were also honoured for their impactful programming and consistent dedication to journalistic standards.
The ceremony drew a high-profile audience, including Acting Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, Inspector General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohuno, Ashanti Regional Minister Frank Amoakohene, and several dignitaries from across the governance and media sectors.
