By Stephen Asante/Ernest Nutsugah, GNA
Accra, Nov. 08, GNA – King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, the Ga Mantse, has urged Ghanaian journalists to go beyond routine news reporting and promote national development through the preservation of cultural heritage and upholding values that strengthen society.
He said while press freedom remained fundamental to democracy, journalists must exercise it responsibly by respecting human dignity, cultural values and national interests.
“The pace at which information travels must never compromise accuracy, fairness, or the principles of responsibility,” he said in an address at the 30th Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Media Awards ceremony in Accra Saturday evening.
The ceremony was held on the theme: “Celebrating Excellence, Advancing Media Freedom and Combating Hate Speech in the Digital Age.”
King Teiko Tsuru, who chaired the ceremony, said the media played a critical role in informing the public, shaping national discourse and influencing societal values, making integrity and professionalism essential in the discharge of journalistic duties.
He urged journalists to tell Ghana’s stories with integrity, preserve its cultural heritage and contribute meaningfully to national development.
“Tell our stories with integrity, preserve our heritage with pride, and contribute meaningfully to our nation’s adaptation,” he said.
The Ga Mantse, who was honoured for his distinguished contributions to traditional governance, peace, the media and national growth, described the awards ceremony as a significant milestone in the history of the GJA.
He said the event provided an opportunity to recognise the dedication, courage and professionalism of journalists in serving the public interest.
It also celebrated excellence, inspired the next generation of media practitioners and strengthened public confidence in the journalism profession, he added.
Mr Omar Faruk Osman, President of the Federation of African Journalists (FAJ), said Ghanaian journalism provided a positive example for journalists and the wider media fraternity across the continent.
The country’s rich tradition of public engagement, professional commitment and contribution to national discourse demonstrated the important role journalism could play in society.
The awards recognised journalistic works published in 2025, with more than 40 individuals and selected organisations receiving honours.
Mr Philip Osei Bonsu of Asempa FM emerged as the GJA/PAV Ansah Journalist of the Year.
He is the host of ‘Ekosiisen’, an afternoon current affairs programme, which also won the Best Radio Programme in a Ghanaian Language category.
President John Dramani Mahama, a member of the GJA, graced the occasion.
Other dignitaries included Mr Alban Bagbin, Speaker of Parliament; Mr Christian Tetteh Yohuno, Inspector-General of Police; Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, Chief Justice; and Mr Osahene Alexander Afenyo-Markin, Minority Leader in Parliament.
GNA
Edited by Agnes Boye-Doe
Reporter: Stephen Asante