Executives of the Ashanti Regional branch of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), led by the chairman, Kofi Adu Domfeh, have paid a courtesy call on the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi.
The delegation used the occasion, which marked the third Awukudae in the year, last Wednesday, to formally introduce the new executives to the Asantehene and sought his blessings for a successful tenure, emphasising the need for his continued guidance and support.
The Ashanti Regional branch of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) commended the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, for his timely intervention in securing land for the construction of a new Press Centre in the region.
Kofi Adu Domfeh, the Ashanti Regional GJA Chairman, expressed appreciation for Otumfuo’s role in hosting the 29th GJA Awards in Kumasi, describing the event as historic and instrumental in enhancing the image of journalism in Ghana.
The GJA also expressed gratitude for the support, which is expected to improve working conditions for journalists in the Ashanti Region.
Kofi Adu Domfeh, explained that the visit was largely to appreciate Otumfuo’s decisive role after the Association lost its previous parcel of land, intended for a proposed Press Centre project in Kumasi.
He revealed that a two-storey structure under construction on the site had been demolished under unexplained circumstances.
“Upon enquiries, the GJA learnt from the Lands Commission that the issue had come to the notice of Otumfuo, who expressed worry about the situation and consequently instructed that a new space should be allocated to journalists in the Ashanti Region for the project,” he said.
He described the intervention as crucial, noting that the acquisition of a new site would provide journalists in the region with a permanent base to coordinate their activities and enhance their work.
“The most important aspect of this visit is to appreciate the gesture of the King in making sure that journalists in the region have a space we can call our own to run our affairs,” he added.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II pledged his fullest support to the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) in establishing a modern press centre in the Ashanti Region and commended the role of the media and approved the project’s development.
Mr. Domfeh also appealed to corporate institutions and individuals to support the construction of the Press Centre, revealing that Fidelity Bank has already contributed GH₵50,000 towards the project.
“As we start the journey of rebuilding the Association, the Press Centre is on our heart. We will need support… and we are hoping others will come on board,” he pleaded.
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