Moses Apiah, the Journalist of the Year 2025, has attributed his award-winning approach to journalism to training by DW Akademie and the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA). He received this training while working at A1 Radio. Apiah stated that the training significantly influenced his reporting style, particularly in investigative and development journalism. The training encouraged him to focus on the lived experiences of people affected by the stories he covers.
Apiah's approach to journalism involves looking beyond headlines and events to understand how issues affect individuals and communities. He cited his reporting on period poverty among adolescent girls in Bawku as an example. This story highlighted the challenges faced by young girls in the region and the impact of period poverty on their lives. Apiah's reporting also covered the alleged defilement of two young sisters, a story that required him to handle sensitive information with care.
Producing such in-depth stories can be demanding, requiring journalists to invest considerable time in gathering evidence and building trust with sources. Apiah noted that the training helped him better document the human consequences of social and development issues affecting communities in the Upper East Region. His work has shed light on critical issues, providing a voice for vulnerable communities.
A1 Radio played a significant role in Apiah's professional development, offering him a platform to share his stories and connect with his audience. The recognition Apiah received at the 5th Upper East Regional Ghana Journalists Association Awards has strengthened his resolve to continue pursuing impactful stories. The awards ceremony, held under the theme "Beyond the Headlines: The Media’s Role in Promoting WASH for Safe Motherhood and Quality Healthcare," highlighted the importance of in-depth reporting.
The 5th Upper East Regional GJA Awards were sponsored by MyTurn Constructions Limited, Lesken Enterprise Limited, Kacstones Records, and Paga Youth Movement. Apiah's award is a testament to the impact of his reporting and the effectiveness of the training he received from DW Akademie and MFWA. His work serves as an example of the critical role journalists can play in promoting social change.
Apiah's reporting has not only shed light on critical issues but also encouraged accountability and transparency in the region. His stories have provided a platform for vulnerable communities to share their experiences and seek justice. The recognition he received at the GJA Awards is a testament to the power of investigative journalism in promoting social change.
The Journalist of the Year 2025 award is a significant achievement for Apiah, and he has expressed his gratitude to A1 Radio and the organizations that supported the GJA Awards. He looks forward to continuing to produce impactful stories that promote social change and accountability.
Key points
- DW Akademie and MFWA training significantly influenced Apiah's approach to journalism.
- Apiah's reporting focuses on the lived experiences of people affected by the stories he covers.
- The recognition at the GJA Awards has strengthened Apiah's resolve to continue pursuing impactful stories.
