In a glowing recognition of distinguished service to journalism and national development, the Eastern Regional Correspondent of The Chronicle, Mr. Isaac Akwetey-Okunor, has been honoured with a prestigious Pure Diamond Award at the 5th Edition of the Diamond Excellence Awards, in acknowledgment of his immense contribution to societal transformation through impactful journalism.
The honour, presented during a colourful ceremony on May 1, 2026 at Birim, in the Eastern Region, placed Mr. Akwetey-Okunor among a select group of exceptional Ghanaians whose work continues to influence communities, shape public discourse and inspire national progress.
At the heart of the recognition was a powerful citation celebrating his steadfast commitment to truth, ethical journalism and developmental reporting.
The citation read;
“For your remarkable contributions to journalism and the pursuit of truth, your insightful reporting and editorial leadership at The Chronicle have played a vital role in informing our communities and upholding the excellence of the Fourth Estate.”
The citation further acknowledged his role as a voice for marginalised communities and a journalist whose work consistently champions social development, accountability and national transformation.
With over two decades of active journalism practice since 2005, Mr. Isaac Akwetey-Okunor has carved a respected niche in Ghana’s media landscape as a developmental journalist, whose reporting goes beyond headlines to influence policy, shape attitudes and advocate practical solutions to national challenges.
Known widely for his incisive coverage of politics, agriculture, rural development, youth empowerment and public policy, his journalism has consistently reflected a deep commitment to social progress.
Unlike conventional reportage that merely highlights problems, Mr. Akwetey-Okunor’s work has often focused on solutions journalism, bringing national attention to opportunities in agriculture, youth employment and sustainable development.
His reporting has strongly promoted the modernisation of agriculture in Ghana, challenging the long-held notion that farming is a last resort occupation. Through numerous articles, analyses and feature stories, he has consistently advocated that agriculture should be viewed as a viable business venture, a source of wealth creation and a strategic pathway for youth employment.
He has particularly championed initiatives such as school farm competitions and university-led agricultural entrepreneurship programmes as transformative models capable of changing perceptions among graduates and repositioning farming as a profitable enterprise.
Champion of Youth Empowerment and Social Transformation
Beyond the newsroom, Mr. Akwetey-Okunor has distinguished himself as an educator and mentor.
As a lecturer at All Nations University, he has contributed significantly to shaping young minds, particularly in communication, leadership and national development discourse.
His academic and leadership credentials are equally noteworthy. He previously served as secretary of the Graduate Students Association of Ghana chapter at All Nations University, where he demonstrated organisational leadership and advocacy on issues affecting graduate students and academic advancement.
As a committed member of the Ghana Journalists Association, he has upheld professional standards and contributed meaningfully to the advancement of journalism in Ghana.
Through his writings and community engagements, he has become a recognisable voice advocating rural transformation, youth inclusion and sustainable economic empowerment.
“I Never Knew My Little Contribution Was Being Watched”
Receiving the award, a visibly humbled Mr. Akwetey-Okunor described the recognition as both surprising and deeply touching.
According to him, although he has received honours in the past, the Diamond recognition carried a unique emotional significance because it reflected society’s appreciation of sincere service often rendered quietly and without expectation of reward.
He remarked that he never imagined that his “widow’s mite” toward societal development was being keenly observed, adding that the honour has renewed his commitment to responsible journalism and service to humanity.
He expressed profound gratitude to the organisers, particularly Daniel Opoku Walker, for identifying and celebrating individuals whose contributions continue to positively shape Ghanaian society.
Mr. Akwetey-Okunor also used the platform to send a strong message to fellow journalists, urging practitioners in the media fraternity to approach their work with integrity, caution and a sense of responsibility.
“Journalists must be guided and circumspect in the discharge of their duties. We may never know who is watching, whose life is being impacted, or how our work may one day be remembered. Let us uphold truth, fairness, and professionalism at all times,” he advised.
Diamond Excellence Awards: Celebrating Ghana’s Changemakers
The Diamond Excellence Awards, an initiative of Danny’s Entertainment, has over the years grown into one of Ghana’s notable recognition platforms for honoring individuals and institutions whose dedication, innovation, and excellence are making meaningful impacts in society.
Under the leadership of CEO, Daniel Opoku Walker, the awards continue to spotlight achievers in sectors including media, business, arts, entrepreneurship, traditional leadership, and community development.
This year’s ceremony featured notable honourees from across Ghana’s professional and social landscape, including distinguished media personalities, business executives, civil society leaders, and grassroots changemakers.
The event also featured performances by celebrated Ghanaian artists, including Jack Alolome, adding cultural vibrancy to an evening dedicated to honoring excellence.
Mr Isaac Akwetey dedicated the award to the management, staff and colleagues at “your authoritative” newspaper, The Chronicle, most especially the Managing Editor, Mr. Emmanuel Akli and the late Mr Richard Kofi Attinkah.
