By Dorothy Frances Ward

Kumasi, June 19, GNA – Mr. Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), has reaffirmed his commitment to vigorously protect press freedom and enhance the welfare of journalists across the country.

Speaking at an engagement with members of the Association in Kumasi, Mr. Dwumfour emphasized his dedication to making journalism more attractive and competitive, while upholding press freedom to enable journalists to carry out their constitutional mandate in a free and democratic media environment.

The meeting formed part of his campaign tour to solicit votes ahead of the upcoming GJA elections and to render an account of his stewardship since assuming the presidency of the Association.

Highlighting his achievements, Mr. Dwumfour noted that under his leadership, the GJA had become more appealing, with over 600 journalists expressing their desire to join in the past three years.

He announced that 49 candidates were contesting for 11 regional executive positions in the upcoming elections, a sign of renewed interest and participation in the Association’s affairs.

Outlining his vision for a second term, Mr. Dwumfour said he aimed to finalize improvements in the conditions of service for journalists, foster unity among media organizations, and prioritize the security and safety of media practitioners.

He further revealed plans to introduce insurance packages for journalists and to restructure regional operations of the GJA for greater efficiency.

On infrastructure, Mr. Dwumfour said his administration had overseen the rehabilitation of the International Press Centre in Accra and successfully hosted international conferences in the capital.

He also referenced the establishment of the Journalists Support Fund, designed to provide legal and financial assistance to victims of media-related attacks.

He proudly declared that during the 2024 General Elections, no attacks on journalists were recorded, a significant improvement compared to previous elections.

“This is a GJA that cannot be bought,” Mr. Dwumfour stated firmly.

Mr. Zambaga Rufai Saminu, a member of the GJA’s International Relations Committee, stressed the importance of strong and fearless leadership to uphold media freedoms and effectively monitor the arms of government.

He said such leadership was necessary to advance the Association’s agenda and to represent the collective interests of journalists in Ghana.

GNA

Edited by Yussif Ibrahim/Kenneth Odeng Adade