The Ashanti regional branch of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) wishes to update our members and the general public on the condition of colleagues who were involved in the recent accident while covering an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) assignment on illegal mining activities on Thursday 6th November, 2025 at Afari near Nkawie.
We are pleased to report that all but ONE of our colleagues, have been discharged and are recovering steadily.
Ibrahim Abubakar (TV3/Akoma FM), Doris Lonta (Channel 1 TV), Nana Yaw Gyimah (Luv FM/JoyNews), and Joseph Obeng (Nhyira FM/Adom News) are doing well.
Our colleague, Akwasi Adomako, a Camera Technician with JoyNews, underwent a successful surgery on his right thigh on Saturday 9th November and is currently in recovery at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital. We continue to wish him a speedy and full recovery.
The GJA expresses profound appreciation to journalists across the country, members of the public, and particularly the EPA, for their solidarity, care, and cooperation during this challenging period.
As we collectively pursue environmental protection and public interest journalism, we must also prioritize our own safety and security in the line of duty. Covering illegal mining (galamsey) operations poses significant risks. Our field monitoring confirms that many of these sites in the Ashanti Region are volatile, with illegal miners often armed and prone to violence against anyone perceived as a threat to their activities.
We therefore urge journalists to always assess and clarify the level of risk before undertaking such assignments, including those in collaboration with anti-galamsey taskforces. It is imperative that adequate security and safety measures are guaranteed before venturing into high-risk zones.
Let us remain vigilant. Let us demand protection. And above all, let us stay alive to continue telling the stories that matter.
The Presiding Member (PM) for the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly, who is also the longest-serving Assembly member for the Krofrom East electoral area, Mr. Patrick Kwame Frimpong, has been honored in Kenya by Bloomberg Philanthropies for usually talking about road safety, fire safety, and other social issues that are beneficial to the venerable people in Ghana.Mr. Frimpong, who doubles as the dean for the Association of Presiding Members (PMs) for the Ashanti region and the national vice chairman of NALAG, received the recognition at the Global Road Safety Leadership Course organized by Bloomberg Philanthropies in Kenya on Tuesday, 3rd and Wednesday, 4th November, 2025.
Mr. Patrick Kwame Frimpong was part of the participants at the just-ended Global Road Safety Leadership Course in Mombasa, Kenya, organized and sponsored by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Health, International Injury Research Unit, Initiative for Global Road Safety, and Global Road Safety Partnership.
Mr Patrick Kwame Frimpong displaying his award
Speaking to “The New Trust” newspaper, Mr. Patrick Kwame Frimpong, who is also the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for Safe Journey Foundation, a non-governmental organization specialized in road safety advocacy, said he was grateful for the recognition by Bloomberg Philanthropies for honoring him as a former unit committee member for Krofofrom Elect Area, assembly member for Krofofrom East Elect Area from 2006 to date, the presiding member for Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA), and the 1st vice president of the National Association of Local Authority Ghana (NALAG).The recognition was also to recognize me for always talking about road safety, fire, and other social issues that benefit vulnerable people.Some of the topics and speakers at the training sessions were “Building national-level road safety performance:
Applying the safe system approach to road safety strategy and monitoring,” which was presented by Carly Koinange, UNEP, and “The challenge of translating gains into sustained action.” Preparing for multsectoral collaboration—Morisela Ponce De Leon Vades, SSATP, etc.
President John Dramani Mahama has pledged that his administration will not condone any acts of intimidation, interference, or attacks on journalists under his leadership.
President John Mahama and GJA President, Albert K.Dwomfour presenting award to Otumfuo Osei Tutu II
Speaking at the 29th Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Media Awards on Saturday, November 8, the President stated that his government is firmly committed to safeguarding press freedom and ensuring the safety of media professionals.
“Let me be unequivocal: under my leadership, this government will neither sanction nor tolerate any form of intimidation, interference, or attacks on journalists.”
He added that his administration had already begun taking practical steps to strengthen relations between journalists and the country’s security agencies.
President John Mahama and Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene
“I have directed the Minister responsible for Government Communications and the Minister for National Security to create a permanent forum for constructive engagement between the security services and the media. This will foster mutual respect and prevent such future incidents,” the President said.
President Mahama, who spoke under the theme “Self-Guarding Ghana: The Role of the Media in Promoting Security and Peace,” reaffirmed his commitment to restoring the atmosphere of media freedom that characterised Ghana’s democracy prior to 2017.
“My administration has chosen the path of restoring the spirit of pre-2017 Ghana, when freedom of expression, institutional respect, and journalistic safety defined our democratic experience,” he said.
He also provided an update on investigations into acts of violence against journalists and citizens during the 2020 and 2024 elections, which resulted in injuries and loss of life.
“I’m pleased to report that the investigations are complete. A total of 21 individuals have been identified. Four have been arrested and released on bail, five remain on remand, and warrants have been issued for the remaining suspects.
“The Attorney General is currently reviewing the reports to determine appropriate legal action and compensation for victims or their families,” he announced.
The President assured that justice would be pursued in accordance with the law, saying, “The victims deserve closure, and the perpetrators will face the consequences of their actions.”
While reiterating his commitment to media freedom, President Mahama also urged journalists to exercise their rights responsibly.
“Freedom must be balanced with responsibility. The credibility of journalism depends on integrity, accuracy, and fairness. Too often, the rush to break a story first results in unverified publications that damage reputations,” the President said.Source: Clara Seshie
The Africa Prosperity Network (APN), with the support of KPMG, has opened nominations for the Africa Prosperity Champions Awards (APCA) 2026, which will be presented at the Africa Prosperity Champions Awards & Presidential Gala Dinner on 6 February 2026 at the Kempinski Gold Coast Hotel, Accra, Ghana, as part of the grand finale of the Africa Prosperity Dialogues (APD) 2026.
The APCAs were established to honour Africans and friends of Africa whose vision, innovation, and leadership are driving the continent’s integration and prosperity. From women and youth to industrial giants and digital pioneers, the 2026 Awards will spotlight those advancing the Agenda 2063 dream of a united, thriving Africa.
Themed: “Empowering SMEs, Women and Youth for Africa’s Single Market: Innovate. Collaborate. Trade.”, the 2026 edition of the Africa Prosperity Dialogues will emphasise the role of SMEs, women, and youth in Africa’s single market.
“These awards are not just about recognition. They are about celebrating those who are at the forefront of building the Africa we want, through industry, innovation, creativity, sustainability, and leadership,” said Nana Adjoa Hackman, Chair, APCA Planning Committee and Director, APN.
The Country Managing Partner for KPMG, Mr Andrew Akoto, states, “KPMG is proud to partner with the Africa Prosperity Network in recognising the visionaries who are shaping Africa’s economic future. These awards shine a light on the entrepreneurs, innovators, and leaders whose work is essential to unlocking the full potential of the AfCFTA and building a more integrated, prosperous continent.”
About the APCA Academy
The Africa Prosperity Champions Awards Academy serves as the governing body responsible for managing, overseeing, and selecting the APCAs. Comprising eight distinct groups, including the APN Advisory Council and Board of Directors, legal and administrative teams, past APCA winners, independent auditors (KPMG), representatives from the AfCFTA Secretariat, nominees from the Office of the President of Ghana, and APN’s strategic institutional partners, the Academy ensures rigorous standards of excellence and integrity.
The Academy’s vision is to provide a living blueprint of leadership for a prosperous Africa, showcasing the values, excellence, and enterprise that drive the continent’s unity, dignity, and progress. Its mission is to recognise, honour, and celebrate individuals and organisations whose outstanding achievements exemplify African excellence and strengthen the bonds of unity, shared growth, and pride among all people of African descent.
Nominees are assessed based on their demonstrated excellence, integrity, measurable impact, innovation, leadership, and commitment to sustainable growth that contributes to regional integration and Africa’s collective progress.
Nomination Process
Nominations will open to the public worldwide on Monday, 10 November 2025. Individuals, businesses, and organisations may be nominated for up to three categories. Entries must include the nominee’s details, the award category, and a short justification (maximum 500 words).
Submissions can be made via WhatsApp at +233 536 098 325, by email at apca2026@africaprosperity.network, or by visiting our website to nominate at www.africaprosperitynetwork.com. The deadline for submitting nominations is November 30, 2025.
Selection
The APCA Academy will review nominations with support from KPMG. Shortlisted candidates will be assessed based on their impact, innovation, pan-African relevance, sustainability, and alignment with the APN’s mission of promoting shared prosperity. Winners will be unveiled at the Gala Dinner on 6 February 2026.
Award Categories
Woman of the Year Award – Celebrating African women breaking barriers and driving prosperity.
Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award – Honouring under-35 trailblazers leveraging AfCFTA to reshape Africa’s business landscape.
SME Champion of the Year Award – Spotlighting SMEs as the backbone of Africa’s economies and drivers of intra-African trade.
Industrialist of the Year Award– Recognising leaders powering Africa’s industrialisation.
Excellence in Digital Innovation Award – For pioneers transforming Africa through digital solutions.
Financial Leadership in SMEs Award – Celebrating financial institutions enabling SMEs, especially women, youth, and start-ups.
Global Soft Power Award – Honouring those projecting Africa’s image and influence worldwide.
Green Africa Award – Recognising champions proving Africa can be both sustainable and prosperous.
Global African Leadership Award – Celebrating the diaspora’s global contributions and leadership.
Transformational Infrastructure Award – Honouring major projects driving transformation, connectivity, and integration.
By nominating, you help celebrate the champions of Africa’s prosperity story. Together, we can inspire a new generation to innovate, collaborate, and trade across Africa. Join us in writing Africa’s prosperity story.
The leadership of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) in the Ashanti Region has intensified its engagement with top security officers in the region to deepen cooperation on matters of public safety and mutual concern.
Led by the Regional Chairman, Kofi Adu Domfeh, the delegation – including Vice-Chairman Nicholas Osei-Wusu and Secretary Beatrice Spio-Garbrah – paid a courtesy call on the newly-appointed Ashanti Regional Police Commander, DCOP Arthur Osei Akoto.
Mr. Domfeh underscored the association’s commitment to fostering constructive media-security relations, stressing that both institutions share a common mandate to promote peace, safety, and accountability.
“The media will continue to partner the police in safeguarding our communities while ensuring that the public remains informed and engaged in security matters,” he affirmed.
The executives also visited the Ashanti Regional Prisons Command, where they held discussions with the Regional Commander, Deputy Director of Prisons (DDP) James B. Mwinyelle (Ing).
The dialogue focused on advancing prison reforms and enhancing public understanding of correctional initiatives.
The GJA pledged its support for the ‘Think Prisons 360°’ initiative, describing it as a progressive step toward reshaping perceptions about the country’s prison system and promoting humane standards of rehabilitation.
These engagements, according to the Ashanti GJA, form part of a broader effort to strengthen institutional partnerships and champion responsible journalism in addressing the region’s social and security challenges.
The Ashanti Regional Executives of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), led by Mr. Kofi Adu Domfeh, paid a familiarization visit to Mr. Nathaniel Nana Kwabena Nkrumah, the FDA Ashanti Regional Head.
Mr Kofi Adu Donfeh(1st from right),Mr Nathaniel Nana Kwabena Nkrumah,FDA head, Beatrice Spio Gabarah and Mr.Nicolas Osei-Wusu in group photograph
Mr. Nathaniel N.K. Nkrumah thanked them for their immense support for the Authority and for the CEO, Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Manso Opuni.
He emphasized his commitment to intensifying collaborative efforts to ensure public health and safety.
The Regional GJA Chairman, Kofi Adu Domfeh, assured Mr. Nkrumah of their cooperation with the Authority to sensitize the public and help achieve its mandate. He also took the opportunity to invite the Regional Head to the upcoming GJA 2025 Awards in the Ashanti Region.
As part of efforts to strengthen its membership base and deepen collaboration within the media fraternity, the Ashanti Regional branch of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has begun a media engagement tour across the region.
Led by the Regional Chairman, Kofi Adu Domfeh, and the Regional Secretary, Beatrice Spio-Garbrah, the executives on Monday visited several leading media organisations, including EIB Network, Pure FM, Akoma 87.9 FM, and Despite Media Group.
Kofi Adu Domfeh (from right ),Beatrice Spio-Garbrah and Mr KoJo Marfo
During the visits, the GJA executives held constructive discussions with Mr. Kojo Marfo of EIB Network, Mr. Kwame Luther King Adinkrah of Pure FM, Mr. Ransford Asare, Head of Station at Akoma FM, and Mr. Sampson K. Nyamekye of Despite Media.
The media leaders expressed confidence in the new GJA regional leadership and commended their proactive approach to strengthening professional standards in journalism.
They also called on the Association to initiate regular capacity-building and training programmes to enhance the skills of journalists in the region.
Discussions also touched on the welfare of journalists, with media managers urging the GJA to prioritize advocacy for improved professionalism and protection for practitioners.
Mr.Kwame Adinkra, and a section of his team in a group photograph with Kofi Adu Domfeh & Beatrice Spio-Garbrah
Regional GJA Chairman, Kofi Adu Domfeh noted that the ongoing engagements form part of a broader agenda to mobilize and unite journalists in the region, while promoting ethical, responsible, and qualitative media practice.
Mr.Kofi Adu Domfeh in a chat with Mr.Sampson K.Nyamekye, General manager of Hello FM
“Our focus is to build a stronger professional community that supports, protects, and empowers journalists to deliver impactful journalism that contributes to regional and national development,” he said.
The Ashanti GJA leadership says the media tour will continue in the coming weeks to cover more media organisations and other partner institutions across the Ashanti Region, as part of efforts to rejuvenate the Association’s presence and visibility at the grassroots level.
Nana Yaw Wiredu, the elected Assembly Member for the Ahinsan-Estate electoral area in the Asokwa Municipality, has been named the Best Assembly Member in the Country.He received the honour at a prestigious event in Accra organised by the Ghana Governance and Leadership Awards.
Nana Yaw Wiredu displaying his award
The organising body praised the renowned Asokwa Assembly Member for his outstanding commitment to duty.The organisation highlighted that the elected Assembly Member has served his area with unwavering passion and dedication for nearly two decades.
They noted that his work has profoundly and positively impacted the lives of the people in the Ahinsan Estate community.Community Projects and Impact:The Ghana Governance and Leadership Awards specifically acknowledged several key projects undertaken in the community, including the provision of borehole water, a police post, gas and fuel filling stations, and other essential infrastructural initiatives that elevate a community to a first-class standard.
The citation
The organisation credited the implementation of these projects entirely to the diligence and industry of Hon. Nana Yaw Wiredu.Expertise in Local Governance:
The group also recognised his deep wealth of knowledge regarding the district assembly concept, pointing out his experience in various roles, from convener to chairman of several sub-committees.“Your deep knowledge in the district assembly concept has earned you many recognitions, including being selected as a member of the National Association of Local Assemblies of Ghana (NALAG),” the organisation stated.Acceptance and AppreciationUpon receiving the award,
Hon. Nana Yaw Wiredu offered his thanks to God for the gift of life and the opportunity to serve.He also expressed his gratitude to the people of Ahinsan Estate for deeming him worthy to lead them in their pursuit of community development.
Hon. Wiredu, who also serves as the Presiding Member of the Asokwa Municipal Assembly, thanked the organisers for the honour conferred upon him and pledged to work diligently to justify the recognition.“I am grateful to this organisation for the award extended to my modest person, and I thank God Almighty for the grace and strength
He has provided to enable me to serve my people in Ahinsan Estate within the Asokwa Municipality, and by extension, Mother Ghana,” Hon. Wiredu concluded, promising to continue his best work.Source: Ghana/otecfmghana.com/ Michael Ofosu-Afriyie, Kumasi.
The Paramount Chief of Prang Traditional Council in the Pru West District of the Bono East Region, Nana Kwadwo Nyarko III, has commended the Mahama government for continuing the Prang – Abease – Kintampo road, which is near completion.
He said apart from the Prang Agenda 111 hospital project, the completion of the road has been his major concern.
In an interview, Pranghene said the ongoing road construction project had entirely given Prang a facelift, especially the main station which the contractor had removed trees and containers for expansion to go on.
Nana Kwadwo Nyarko III
Nana Nyarko said, initially, the shop owners at the main station and other roadsides, whose containers had been affected as a result of the road construction, were officially contacted by himself on the need to relocate their containers to pave the way for the project.
According to Nana Nyarko, when completed, the road will serve as a great relief for various towns around Yeji, Prang, Atebubu, Kwame – Danso, especially travellers or road users, who want to travel to Techiman or Sunyani without necessarily passing through Ejura in the Ashanti Region.
Some scenes from the ongoing road project
Pranghene explained that he would forever be grateful to any government that comes to power for Prang to receive its fair share of the national cake.
He recalled that during NPP tenure they did what they could and he commended them. “In the same way, I’m commending the NDC which is in power today,” he added.
The chief said the road project would bring or attract investors and also promote businesses in the area when completed.
He said Prang Agenda 111 hospital is among the 38 hospitals that the government has selected to work on soon.
He appealed to the government to expedite action on the Prang Agenda 111 hospital project when the time is due because of its location.
Besides, he appealed to his people to continue to support him physically and spiritually in order to help him do more for them.
The Private Newspapers and Online News Publishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAG) wishes to express its deep concerns regarding the proposed Misinformation, Disinformation, Hate Speech and Publication of Other Information Bill (MDHI) currently under consideration by the Government of Ghana.
While we acknowledge the growing challenges posed by misinformation, disinformation, and hate speech in our media and digital spaces, PRINPAG is of the firm belief that the proposed bill lacks clarity in its purpose and necessity. It remains unclear what specific gap in the current legal framework the bill seeks to address or what mischief it intends to cure.
Ghana’s existing legal architecture including the 1992 Constitution, the Defamation Act, the Criminal Offences Act, and the Electronic Communications Act already provide robust mechanisms to safeguard privacy, promote responsible speech, and prohibit hate speech. Additionally, the media industry, through institutions such as the National Media Commission (NMC), the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), and PRINPAG itself, has developed comprehensive codes of ethics to guide professional conduct.
The real challenge lies not in the absence of laws but in their enforcement. Implementation has often been selective and politically motivated, undermining the rule of law and press freedom. History has shown that even without such a bill, journalists have faced intimidation and arrest for fulfilling their constitutional duty to hold power to account. The potential for abuse under the MDHI Bill is significant, especially if wielded by individuals or regimes with little regard for democratic principles.
We caution that any legislation must be resilient against misuse by future governments, particularly those that may not uphold the rule of law. The MDHI Bill, in its current form, appears vulnerable to manipulation and could become a tool for suppressing dissent and curtailing free speech.
David Tamakloe,President,
PRINPAG
PRINPAG is currently reviewing the contents of the proposed bill and will provide a comprehensive response at an appropriate forum. However, we feel compelled to make these interim remarks and urge the government to suspend further action on the bill until broader consultations are held with stakeholders across the media, civil society, and legal communities.
We remain committed to promoting responsible journalism and protecting the integrity of Ghana’s democratic discourse. Let us strengthen existing frameworks rather than introduce legislation that risks undermining the freedoms we have fought hard to secure.
Signed:
David Tamakloe
President
PRINPAG
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