By Michael Foli Jackidy
Ho (V/R), June 26, GNA – The Volta Regional Chapter of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), has officially presented the architectural design and cost estimates for Phase II of its Press Centre project to the Volta Regional Minister, Mr. James Gunu.
The presentation ceremony, held in Ho, follows a series of consultations with the Minister, aimed at advancing the completion of the landmark project.
Mr. Emmanuel Agbaxode, Chairman of GJA-Volta and the Administrator Mr. Lambert Atsivor, handed over the documents to Mr. Gunu and provided an overview of the proposed development, including its functional design, layout and financial implications.
The second phase of the project envisions the construction of an upper floor on the existing structure.
This addition would feature a 120-seater conference room, a boardroom, two executive offices, and supporting facilities.
The existing building would also be extended to accommodate a modern reception area.
To further enhance the facility’s sustainability, a six-room fully unsuited guest accommodation block is planned for the rear of the compound.
This component is intended to generate internally generated funds for the Association.
Mr. James Gunu, who is also a member of the GJA, lauded the leadership for their vision and professionalism in producing a detailed and practical blueprint.
He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the project, indicating his readiness to lead a targeted private-sector fundraising initiative.
“Membership dues alone cannot fund this project. What we will do is turn to the private sector, and I will personally lead the effort to mobilize resources. Our goal is to ensure that by the next World Press Freedom Day, we will be cutting the tape to inaugurate the new building,” the Minister stated.
He also commended the inclusion of the guest lodge, describing it as a prudent strategy to ensure financial sustainability for the Press Centre.
The architectural design and estimated cost—pegged at approximately GHC 7 million—were developed with technical support from the Ho Zonal Office of the Architectural and Engineering Services Limited.
Mr. Agbaxode thanked the Minister for his constant support, notably his recent personal donation of GHC 10,000 towards the project.
He revealed that GJA-Volta would soon launch a comprehensive fundraising campaign to rally support from stakeholders, development partners, and the public.
The presentation ceremony was attended by GJA executives, senior journalists, and former regional GJA Chairman.
GNA
Edited by: Maxwell Awumah/Lydia Kukua Asamoah