08/05/2026
The Volta Regional branch of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) commemorated the 2026 World Press Freedom Day at the Press Centre in Ho under the theme “Shaping a Future at Peace.”
The event held on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, was chaired by Mr. Kenneth Kponor, Regional Director of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), and attended by representatives of the security services, civil society, and other stakeholders.
In his keynote address, Dr. David Esinu Yao Normanyo, Volta Regional Executive Secretary of the National Peace Council, urged journalists to embrace peace journalism, stressing that responsible reporting can calm tensions and protect national stability. He called for the creation of a Ghana Peace Index to measure peace across regions and districts.
The Guest of Honour, Hon. James Gunu, Volta Regional Minister, was represented by Mrs. Josephine Drake-Abrahams, PRO of the Volta Regional Coordinating Council. She reaffirmed government’s commitment to press freedom, announcing initiatives such as the reintroduction of a transparent Media Development Fund, constitutional reforms to strengthen media rights, and decentralization of the National Media Commission.
Welcoming participants, Dr. Harrison Kofi Belley, Chairman of GJA-Volta, celebrated Ghana’s rise in the World Press Freedom Index, now ranked 39th globally and 4th in Africa. He cautioned against complacency, highlighting challenges such as harassment of journalists and economic pressures on media houses, while commending local initiatives like the Mawuleme Movement for promoting a cleaner and greener Ho Municipality.
The commemoration blended reflection with resolve, reminding all that press freedom is not only a democratic right but also a foundation for lasting peace and development.
