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GJA climaxes celebration with 28th Awards ceremony
GJA President, Albert Kwabena Dwumfour delivering his address
Journalists across the length and breadth of the country on Saturday celebrated the 75th anniversary of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) with its famous awards to honour deserving practitioners for the year 2023.
This year’s awards marked the 28th edition and attracted high profile guests including the President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
Also in attendance were media professionals, government officials, the UN Resident Coordinator in Ghana, Charles Abani, and the Chairman of the National Media Commission, Yaw Boadu Ayeboafoh.
This year’s theme, “75 Years of Excellence in Journalism: The Role of the Media in Democratic Governance and Elections,” highlighted the essential role of the press in promoting accountability, transparency, and informed decision-making among the public, especially during election cycles.
Edward Adeti of ‘Reporters Without Borders’ fame was named the 2023 Paul Archibald Vianney (PAV) Ansah Journalist of the Year for his investigative piece,“Stealing from the Sick.”
His documentary exposed systemic drug shortages at the Bolgatanga Regional Hospital.
Jonathan Donkor and Benedicta Gyimah Folley from The Ghanain Times displaying their awards. Photos; Stephanie Birikorang
Other recipients included Jonathan Donkor and Benedicta Gyimaah Folley of The Ghanaian Times, as Road Safety Journalist of the Year for his impactful feature on the dangers of defective vehicle tires, and Gender Journalist of the Year for her piece on the persecution of women accused of witchcraft respectively.
Other winners were Beatrice Senadju from GBC, who took home Female Journalist of the Year, and Edward Acquah of the Ghana News Agency, who was awarded Komla Dumor Most Promising Journalist of the Year. The Fourth Estate’s Seth J. Bokpe also continued his winning streak by claiming Best Reporter in Democracy and Good Governance for the third year running.
The president urged the media to tackle the growing challenge of disinformation as the nation approaches the 2024 general elections
By Stephanie Birikorang
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The 7th National Women’s Summit & Expo introduces Industry Spotlight
As the world confronts the complex challenges of sustainable development, food security, and economic growth, one thing is clear: women are essential to the future of agribusiness.
Recognizing this vital contribution, the 7th National Women’s Summit & Expo is set to shine a spotlight on women in agribusiness through its new Industry Spotlight Series with an event dubbed; ‘Women in Agribusiness Industry Mixer’.
This exciting initiative aims to elevate the voices, achievements, and impact of women within the agricultural sector, ultimately strengthening Ghana’s food value chain and boosting economic development. The event is slated for Friday, 21st February at the Kosmos Innovation Center at 5pm prompt.
Agriculture: The Backbone of Ghana’s Economy
Agriculture is the beating heart of Ghana’s economy, supporting millions of livelihoods—particularly those of women.
The sector accounts for around 20% of the country’s GDP and plays an essential role in driving economic growth. Women are at the forefront of food production, processing, distribution, and market innovation, making crucial contributions to the sector’s ongoing development. Yet, despite their significant impact, women in agribusiness still face barriers such as limited access to finance, technology, and markets, which hinder their full participation and potential.
Unlocking the Potential of Women in Agribusiness
The 7th National Women’s Summit & Expo aims to tackle these challenges head-on, providing a platform for engagement, knowledge-sharing, and policy discussions.
On February 21, 2025, the Women in Agribusiness Industry Mixer at the Kosmos Innovation Center will gather women entrepreneurs, agribusiness professionals, investors, and key stakeholders.
The event will facilitate idea exchange, explore potential partnerships, and drive collaborative solutions. Discussions will focus on four critical areas:
The 7th National Women’s Summit & Expo 2025 is more than just an event—it’s a call to action for gender equality. By focusing on agribusiness, an industry crucial to economic transformation, this year’s summit will serve as a launchpad for meaningful engagement, policy dialogue, and business opportunities.
Participants will
• Network with industry leaders, investors, and policymakers
• Explore partnerships and collaborative solutions
• Engage in high-level discussions on key industry challenges
• Showcase innovative products and services
• Champion the future of women in agribusiness
At the National Women’s Summit & Expo on March 7, will focus thought-provoking and in-depth discussion on “Women in Agribusiness” as part of our Industry Spotlight series.
Additionally, they will delve into the following topics;
1. Access to Finance and Investment Opportunities for Women in Agriculture
Access to finance remains one of the biggest hurdles for women in agribusiness, restricting their ability to scale and innovate. The Industry Mixer will offer a unique opportunity for women entrepreneurs to connect with investors, financial institutions, and development partners, exploring innovative financing models and investment opportunities that can fuel growth.
2. Sustainable and Innovative Agricultural Practices
As pressure mounts for the agricultural sector to adopt sustainable and innovative practices, the event will spotlight best practices in sustainable agriculture. Success stories will be shared, and participants will gain insights into innovative approaches that enhance productivity while minimizing environmental impact in production, processing, and distribution.
3. Market Expansion and Value Chain Optimization
Many women in agribusiness struggle with limited access to markets and value chains.
The mixer will focus on strategies to overcome these barriers, facilitating discussions on how women-led ventures can tap into local, regional, and even global markets, thereby unlocking growth and expanding their reach.
4. Policy Advocacy for Gender-Inclusive Agribusiness Growth
To create an environment where women in agribusiness can truly thrive, policy reform is key.
The event will bring together policymakers, industry leaders, and civil society organizations to discuss and advocate for policy initiatives that foster gender-inclusive growth within the agribusiness sector.
The Industry Spotlight Series – Women in Agribusiness is a Charterhouse production and brought to you by Geisha in partnership with Kosmo Innovations Center.
Admission is absolutely free!
News
Gyakye Quayson calls for unity and reform in Black History Month address
James Gyakye Quayson, Member of Parliament for Assin North, delivered a compelling speech in Parliament to mark Black History Month, emphasizing unity, self-sufficiency, and inclusive governance.
He paid tribute to Black leaders such as Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther King Jr., and Barack Obama, highlighting their contributions to justice and equality.
He also addressed Africa’s paradox of wealth and underdevelopment, citing historical exploitation and economic dependency as major obstacles.
“Black History Month is a call to action. It reminds us of the need for unity among Black people worldwide. By learning from the past and building solidarity, we can create a future of dignity and empowerment,” he stated.
Ghana as the Gateway to Africa
Mr.Quayson reaffirmed Ghana’s role as the Gateway to Africa, pointing to the Year of Return and Beyond the Return initiatives, which have strengthened ties with the global African diaspora.
These programmes have brought investments in real estate, hospitality, and tourism, boosting economic growth and cultural connections.
Call for Reform: Dual Citizenship and Governance
A key focus of his address was the need to amend Ghana’s dual citizenship laws, which restrict Ghanaians with dual nationality from holding political office. He urged Parliament to expedite the Dual Citizenship Amendment Bill to allow skilled and committed diaspora Ghanaians to contribute to leadership and development.
“The fight against dual citizenship restrictions is not a personal battle but a national conversation. Our Constitution must evolve to reflect the global realities of our people,” he asserted.
The Black Star Experience: A Cultural and Economic Vision
Mr.Quayson also highlighted the Black Star Experience, an NDC initiative aimed at making Ghana a global hub for arts, culture, and tourism. With year-round celebrations in literature, fashion, film, and music, the initiative is expected to attract investment, create jobs, and boost local businesses.
“This initiative will enhance tourism revenues, provide skills transfer, and cement Ghana’s position as a leader in creative and economic innovation,” he noted.
Recognizing and Empowering New Citizens
Mr.Quayson advocated for policies that integrate African Americans and other nationals who have settled in Ghana, allowing them to contribute to governance and leadership.
“Leadership is not confined to nationality by birth but defined by the ability to serve, innovate, and uplift communities,” he emphasized.
A Call for Unity and Progress
Concluding his speech, he urged for a collective effort to create an inclusive and progressive Ghana.
“The journey ahead is long, but together, we can redefine what it means to be Ghanaian, ensure equal opportunities, and build a future our children will be proud of,” he affirmed.
Mr.Quayson’s remarks has reignited discussions on diaspora engagement, constitutional reforms, and Ghana’s cultural and economic leadership. His message of resilience and unity serves as a guiding beacon for the nation’s future.
