The 5th Upper East Regional Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Awards is set to take place on October 2, 2026, at the Lapam Zorkor Hotel in Bolgatanga, Ghana. This year's event is themed “Beyond the Headlines: The Media’s Role in Promoting WASH for Safe Motherhood and Quality Healthcare.” The awards ceremony aims to recognize excellence in journalism and draw attention to issues affecting communities in the region.
Alaffia, a US-based organization founded by Olowo-n’djo Tchala, has partnered with the GJA to support the awards. According to Alaffia, the theme aligns with its commitment to community development and social impact, particularly in maternal healthcare, clean water, education, and environmental sustainability. Through fair trade, Alaffia works with women’s cooperatives in Ghana and Togo to source shea butter and handcrafted products.
In the Upper East Region, Alaffia has made significant contributions to community development. The organization has supported communities with over 10 potable water wells, including two solar-powered and mechanized boreholes constructed in 2026. These boreholes are scheduled to be commissioned in the coming days. Additionally, Alaffia has distributed and planted more than 10,000 seedlings in the region.
Alaffia's efforts in the Upper East Region have created direct and indirect livelihood opportunities for approximately 6,500 people through shea nut collection, shea butter processing, and basket weaving. The organization's work in the region reflects its commitment to initiatives that promote public awareness and community development. By supporting the GJA Awards, Alaffia aims to recognize and encourage journalists who tell stories that shape the lives of communities.
Olowo-n’djo Tchala, CEO and Founder of Alaffia, emphasized the crucial role journalists play in helping communities understand issues that directly affect their lives. Tchala expressed pride in supporting journalists who tell these stories with care and honesty. Alaffia congratulated all nominees for the 5th Upper East Regional GJA Awards and commended the GJA Upper East Regional branch for its efforts.
The 5th Upper East Regional GJA Awards is a significant event that highlights the importance of journalism in promoting community development. By partnering with Alaffia, the GJA aims to draw attention to issues affecting communities in the region. The awards ceremony is expected to bring together journalists, stakeholders, and community leaders to discuss pressing issues and recognize excellence in journalism.
The event is one of several initiatives aimed at promoting community development in the Upper East Region. Other organizations and stakeholders are also working to address issues related to maternal healthcare, clean water, education, and environmental sustainability. The 5th Upper East Regional GJA Awards is a testament to the region's commitment to promoting quality healthcare and safe motherhood.
Key points
- Alaffia supports the 5th Upper East Regional GJA Awards to promote community development and recognize excellence in journalism.
- The organization has contributed to community development in the Upper East Region through initiatives such as potable water wells and seedling distribution.
- The 5th Upper East Regional GJA Awards aims to draw attention to issues affecting communities in the region, including maternal healthcare and clean water.