Philip Tengzu wins Upper West Journalist of the Year at GJA awards

Philip Tengzu of the Ghana News Agency (GNA) has been crowned the Upper West Regional Journalist of the Year at the second edition of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Awards. The ceremony, held in the regional capital, Wa, celebrated professional excellence while highlighting the critical role of the media in regional development and democratic accountability.

Tengzu’s recognition was based on his impactful reporting on education and disability rights, areas the awards committee identified as vital for social progress. The event was held under the theme "Upholding Media Excellence, Promoting Ethical Journalism, Accountability and Regional Development." This theme provided a framework for stakeholders to discuss how local journalism can be strengthened to better serve the people of the Upper West Region.

Addressing the gathering, key speakers including Major Albert Banoba Don-Chebe (Rtd) and Regional GJA Chairman Prosper Kuorsoh emphasized the need for improved welfare and sustainability in the media sector. They pointed out that journalists in the region face significant economic challenges, which can undermine ethical standards and professional integrity. The speakers called for increased corporate support and better remuneration packages to ensure that journalists can perform their duties effectively and independently.

The awards ceremony served as both a celebration of achievement and a call to action for the region's press corps. By acknowledging the potential of local journalism to drive accountability, the GJA aims to encourage practitioners to maintain high ethical standards despite the resource constraints they face. This second edition of the regional awards underscores the association's commitment to recognizing excellence outside the national capital.