JoyNews’ Fred Quame Asare adjudged 2026 Best Community Reporter in Volta Region

Joy News Volta Regional Correspondent, Fred Quame Asare, has been adjudged the Best Community Reporter at the 4th Volta Ghana Journalist Media Awards ceremony, held in Ho over the weekend.

His feature on the devastation caused by tidal waves along the west coast of the region, “The Sinking Community of Agavedzi”, was ranked first among the other entries in the category.

The feature chronicled how victims of coastal erosion are adjusting to their new lives after their homes were washed away, leaving their community sandwiched between the sea and the lagoon.

Livelihoods had been affected by the natural disaster, which had been occurring for decades, prompting the victims to appeal to the government to resume construction of the coastal sea defence wall to protect the rest of their community, cultural heritage and legacy.

Mr Asare extended heartfelt gratitude to GJA Volta for the honour of recognising his commitment to giving a voice to the voiceless. He was grateful to God for His guidance and protection during his 16 years of practice, and to his family and partners, who had supported him all these years.

He expressed his appreciation to the editors who helped shape his career, from the first day he started practicing in the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation’s Volta Star Radio newsroom to his time at Joy Newsroom.

“This award gives me reason to continue combing the rural areas of Ghana, serving as a voice to the voiceless, producing stories that would not only get the headlines but impact communities and transform generations”, he said.

Daniel Agbesi Latsu of the Ghana News Agency (GNA) was selected as the best reporter in the Agriculture category, while Edward Williams, also of GNA, won the Best Health Report.

Desmond Selase Aggor of ChannelOneTV won the Sports and Education categories and was awarded the GJA/Ras Muta Most Promising Journalist of the year.

Michael Foli Jackidy of GNA 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, with Sabina Manorky Sowu of Ho Technical University winning the Best Student Journalist.

The Best Business Reporter award, which was presented to Desmond Selase Aggor at the ceremony, had been withdrawn pending some clarifications.