Joy News Volta Regional Correspondent, Fred Quame Asare, has been recognized as the Best Community Reporter at the 4th Volta Ghana Journalist Media Awards ceremony held in Ho. His feature, "The Sinking Community of Agavedzi," chronicling the devastation caused by tidal waves along the west coast of the region, won first place in the category. The feature highlighted the struggles of victims of coastal erosion and their appeals to the government for assistance.
The award-winning feature shed light on the impact of the natural disaster on the community, with homes washed away and livelihoods affected. The victims have been calling on the government to resume construction of the coastal sea defence wall to protect their community, cultural heritage, and legacy. Mr. Asare expressed gratitude to the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Volta for the recognition and to his family, partners, and editors for their support throughout his 16-year career.
Fred Quame Asare attributed his success to God's guidance and protection, as well as the support of his family and partners. He also thanked his editors, who helped shape his career from his early days at Ghana Broadcasting Corporation's Volta Star Radio newsroom to his time at Joy Newsroom. The award has motivated him to continue serving as a voice to the voiceless and producing impactful stories that transform communities and generations.
The 4th Volta Ghana Journalist Media Awards ceremony saw several other journalists recognized for their outstanding work. Daniel Agbesi Latsu of the Ghana News Agency (GNA) won the Best Reporter in the Agriculture category, while Edward Williams, also of GNA, took home the Best Health Report award. Desmond Selase Aggor of ChannelOneTV won the Sports and Education categories and was awarded the GJA/Ras Muta Most Promising Journalist of the year.
Other winners at the ceremony included Michael Foli Jackidy of GNA, who won the Tourism and Disability/Gender categories and was adjudged the GJA/Hon. James Gunu Journalist of the Year. Ho FM won the Best Morning Show award, and Sabina Manorky Sowu of Ho Technical University won the Best Student Journalist award. However, the Best Business Reporter award was withdrawn pending clarifications.
Fred Quame Asare's award is a testament to his commitment to giving a voice to the voiceless and telling stories that impact communities. He plans to continue combing the rural areas of Ghana, producing stories that not only make headlines but also bring about positive change. The recognition has also highlighted the importance of community reporting and the impact it can have on promoting development and social justice.
The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Volta Regional Awards aim to promote excellence in journalism and recognize the outstanding contributions of journalists in the region. The ceremony saw a gathering of journalists, media professionals, and stakeholders from the region, all coming together to celebrate the best in journalism. The awards also provided an opportunity for journalists to reflect on their role in shaping public discourse and promoting accountability.
Key points
- Fred Quame Asare won the 2026 Best Community Reporter in Volta Region for his feature on the devastation caused by tidal waves along the west coast of the region.
- The 4th Volta Ghana Journalist Media Awards ceremony recognized several journalists for their outstanding work in various categories.
- The awards aim to promote excellence in journalism and recognize the contributions of journalists in the region.
