The Western and Western North Regional branches of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has officially launched the 2026 Media and Corporate Impact Awards under the theme, “Reporting Progress. Investing in People.”

The initiative seeks to honour journalists whose work has promoted accountability, influenced public policy and highlighted development across the Western and Western North Regions.

It will also recognise corporate organisations making significant contributions to community development through social investment and sustainable initiatives.

Speaking at the launch in Sekondi, Western Regional GJA Chairman, Desmond Cudjoe, described journalism as a vital bridge between development and the people. He said meaningful progress can only be achieved when citizens are well informed and empowered to hold leaders accountable.

Cudjoe noted that journalists continue to report on critical issues including education, health, infrastructure, governance, the environment and business, often under difficult and dangerous conditions. He therefore called for improved welfare, safety, training and professional development for media practitioners, stressing that investing in journalists ultimately strengthens democracy and national development.

Chairman for the occasion, Nana Nteboa Pra IV, Divisional Chief of Himan-Prestea, urged stakeholders to take the challenges facing journalists seriously.

He condemned attacks on media practitioners and poor working conditions, describing them as threats to press freedom and public confidence.

He also appealed to media owners to prioritise staff welfare while encouraging journalists, particularly those in the digital media space, to uphold accuracy, fairness and responsible reporting instead of sensationalism.

The launch attracted representatives from state institutions, traditional authorities, corporate organisations, civil society groups and development partners, all of whom reaffirmed the indispensable role of the media in promoting transparency, accountability and inclusive development.

The Association announced competitive award categories covering Infrastructure, Fisheries, Cocoa and Agriculture, Oil, Gas and Energy, Environment, Education, Sports, Crime and Legal Affairs, Health, Gender and Social Inclusion, and Business and Labour Affairs.

Eligible entries must be original journalistic works produced within the Western and Western North Regions between June 2025 and July 2026.

The event also introduced the Corporate Impact Awards, which will honour organisations demonstrating excellence in environmental stewardship, social investment, employment creation, local governance support and other sustainable development initiatives.

Vice Chairman of the Western and Western North Regional GJA, Mr. Kwame Mensa, encouraged both journalists and corporate institutions to participate in the awards, describing them as a major platform for celebrating excellence and inspiring greater impact.

The Association expressed appreciation to all sponsors and partners for supporting the initiative, with special recognition to Damang Gold Mine, the headline sponsor, for its commitment to promoting media excellence and community development.

Reporting by Isaac Hughes in the Western Region