By Daniel Bampoe
The re-election campaign of Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) President Albert Kwabena Dwumfour has received a significant boost with a high-profile endorsement from the President of the Ghana Independent Broadcasters Association (GIBA), Cecil Sunkwa-Mills.
In a strongly worded statement, Sunkwa-Mills praised Dwumfour’s tenure as a period of “dedicated, visionary, and impactful leadership,” urging GJA members to retain him for a second term.
Albert Dwumfour, who first assumed office in 2022, is seeking re-election following a tenure marked by key reforms, intensified journalist protection advocacy, capacity-building initiatives, and stronger institutional partnerships.
His leadership has been described by many in the media industry as transformational and responsive to the core needs of journalists.
Sunkwa-Mills, representing a powerful coalition of private broadcasters, emphasized that Albert Dwumfour has not only led the GJA effectively but has also worked to build unity within Ghana’s fragmented media ecosystem.
“Albert has shown unwavering commitment to press freedom, institutional collaboration, and the protection of journalists. His re-election is not just desirable, but necessary for the continued growth and safety of our profession,” he stated.
Building Coalitions for Press Freedom and Safety
Under Albert Dwumfour’s leadership, the GJA played a pivotal role in forming the Media Coalition — a unified front comprising various media organisations to advocate for journalist welfare and safety, particularly ahead of Ghana’s tense 2024 elections.
The coalition became instrumental in de-escalating conflicts between traditional authorities and radio stations such as Oyerepa FM and Radio Ada.
He also engaged security agencies to pursue justice in high-profile assault cases involving journalists, including the infamous attack on Citi TV reporter Caleb Kudah, the invasion of UTV by political activists, and unresolved murders and assaults such as that of investigative journalist Ahmed Suale.
Additionally, Albert Dwumfour introduced a blacklist policy against public figures who perpetrate violence against journalists, and formed a legal support team to handle media-related legal battles.
Welfare at the Core of His Presidency
Albert Dwumfour’s term has also been welfare-focused. The establishment of the Journalists’ Support Fund (JSF) has provided both legal and financial aid to reporters attacked on duty.
Journalists who faced personal crises, including bereavements, accidents, and health-related hardships, have also benefited from financial assistance schemes initiated under his leadership.
Moreover, he launched a retiree support scheme to cushion aged journalists facing economic hardship — a first in GJA’s history.
A key area of Albert Dwumfour’s success is professional development.
His administration secured a five-year scholarship programme at the Wisconsin University College for GJA members. Over 20 workshops and capacity-building seminars were held nationwide, often in collaboration with diplomatic missions such as the U.S. and Spanish Embassies, and institutions like the Electoral Commission of Ghana.
Dwumfour also initiated international exchange programmes with media institutions abroad, aiming to upskill Ghanaian journalists through global exposure.
Track Record and Legacy
Dwumfour’s profile reveals a deep-rooted connection to journalism — from humble beginnings as a freelance writer for The Insight and The Independent newspapers to co-founding The Ghanaian Analyst and becoming Managing Director of Atinka Media Village.
This experiential diversity has informed his practical and inclusive approach to leadership.
During his term, the GJA has become more visible and vocal. On World Press Freedom Day 2025, his administration honoured champions of press freedom, reinforcing the association’s role as a watchdog for journalists’ rights and freedoms
He has also completed a campaign tour across all 16 regions, receiving massive grassroots support and endorsements from veteran journalists and regional media leaders.
Looking Ahead: Why It Matters
“Albert possesses the vision and collaborative energy required to future-proof our media space. Re-electing him is not just a vote for continuity, but a commitment to growth,” GIBA President Sunkwa-Mills concluded.
With the GJA elections looming, Albert Dwumfour appears to be the candidate to beat — bolstered by endorsements, a clear track record, and widespread recognition as a steward of press freedom and media development in Ghana.
