GJA A/R extends support to journalists hurt in galamsey coverage accident

The Ashanti Regional Branch of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has expressed deep concern and solidarity with journalists involved in an accident while covering an official assignment on illegal mining activities in collaboration with the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA).

In a statement, the GJA Ashanti Region said, "We stand in full solidarity with our affected colleagues in this difficult moment. Our thoughts and prayers are with them, their families, and their media organizations."

The association emphasized that the safety, welfare, and protection of journalists remain paramount, highlighting the risks associated with reporting on issues like galamsey.

"We are actively engaging relevant authorities and partners to ensure they receive the necessary medical attention and emotional support," said Kofi Adu Domfeh, Regional Chairman of GJA Ashanti Region.

The GJA called on institutions engaging media in field operations to prioritize safety protocols and ensure proper coordination, especially in high-risk areas.

Read the full statement below:

Press Statement

For Immediate Release

GJA Ashanti Region expresses solidarity with journalists involved in accident during illegal mining coverage

The Ashanti Regional Branch of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has received with deep concern the news of an accident involving some journalists who were covering an official assignment on illegal mining activities in collaboration with the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA).

We stand in full solidarity with our affected colleagues in this difficult moment. Our thoughts and prayers are with them, their families, and their media organizations. The safety, welfare, and protection of journalists remain paramount to the GJA, and this unfortunate incident underscores the inherent risks associated with the critical work our members undertake in pursuit of public interest, especially on issues related to galamsey.

The leadership of the GJA in the Ashanti Region wishes to assure all affected journalists of its unwavering support. We are actively engaging relevant authorities and partners to ensure they receive the necessary medical attention and emotional support.

As journalists continue to play their watchdog role in bringing national attention to environmental and social challenges, it is imperative that their safety is given topmost priority. We call on all institutions that engage the media in field operations, particularly in high-risk areas, to adhere strictly to safety protocols and ensure proper coordination and preparedness at all times.

The GJA remains resolute in supporting our colleagues through these trying times.

Signed:

Kofi Adu Domfeh

Regional Chairman

Ghana Journalists Association – Ashanti Region