Albert Kwabena Dwumfour is the Ghana Journalists Association President
Correspondence from Ashanti Region
At the 29th GJA Awards, GJA President Albert Kwabena Dwumfour lauded Ghana’s leaders for their pivotal roles in fostering peace and stability, emphasising that a tranquil environment is fundamental for national development and the effective fight against illegal mining (galamsey).
The ceremony, attended by a distinguished gathering including former President John Dramani Mahama, Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Acting Chief Justice Baffoe-Bonnie, and IGP Christian Tetteh Yohunu, among other dignified individuals, celebrated the media’s commitment to safeguarding Ghana’s future.
The awards ceremony which was held in Kumasi, Ashanti region, was designed under the theme; “Safeguarding Ghana’s Future: The Role Of The Media In Promoting Peace, Security And The Fight Against Galamsey.”
President Dwumfour commenced his address by underscoring that peace is an essential commodity that cannot be sold or bought cheaply and that development can exist in the absence of peace.
He then turned to commend the exemplary efforts of national leaders in securing this vital peace.
The GJA President offered high praise to President John Dramani Mahama for his “standing intervention in nominating the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to lead mediation efforts in the Boko conflict.
Dwumfour noted that this move has successfully helped to ensure relative calm and stability as we speak. He expressed belief that this traditional-led peace mediation model can be extended to other conflict-prone areas across Ghana, thereby fostering the peace necessary for development to thrive.
Consequently, he urged continued government support for such traditional-led peace efforts and the expanding unity and deepening national cohesion.
Dwumfour also highlighted a significant improvement in the relationship between the Ghana Police Service and the media. He specifically commended the Inspector General of Police, Dr Christian Tetteh Yohunu, for his efforts in maintaining a cordial rapport.
Dwumfour stated, “I, on behalf of the National Executive and the Fourth Estate of the Realm, we commend the Inspector General of Police, Dr Christian Tetteh Yohunu for maintaining a cordial rapport.”
He expressed confidence that this renewed trust will ensure that journalists feel safer working with the police even in sensitive security environments, a development crucial for robust reporting on security matters, including the galamsey fight.
While celebrating these strides in peace and security relations, Dwumfour reiterated the critical importance of a united front against the devastating effects of galamsey.
He reminded the audience that despite the progress in peace-building and security collaboration, the fight against illegal mining remains a significant challenge, requiring continued vigilance and collective action.
