GJA Warns Journalists to Prioritize Safety After EPA Field Accident

The Ashanti Regional branch of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has urged journalists to exercise caution and prioritise safety when covering illegal mining activities, following a road accident involving reporters on an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) assignment on Thursday, November 6, 2025, near Afari, Nkawie.

In a statement signed by Kofi Adu Domfeh, Ashanti Regional Chairman of the GJA, the association confirmed that all but one of the journalists involved in the incident have been discharged from hospital and are recovering steadily.

Those discharged include Ibrahim Abubakar (TV3/Akoma FM), Doris Lonta (Channel One TV), Nana Yaw Gyimah (Luv FM/JoyNews), and Joseph Obeng (Nhyira FM/Adom News).

The statement noted that Akwasi Adomako, a camera technician with JoyNews, successfully underwent surgery on his right thigh on Saturday, November 8, and is now recuperating at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital. The GJA extended wishes for his full and speedy recovery.

“We urge journalists to always assess and clarify the level of risk before undertaking such assignments, including those in collaboration with anti-galamsey taskforces. Adequate security and safety measures must be guaranteed before venturing into high-risk zones,” the statement emphasized.

The association expressed gratitude to journalists nationwide, members of the public, and the EPA for their solidarity during this challenging period. It also highlighted the volatile nature of illegal mining sites in the Ashanti Region, where miners are often armed and may react violently toward perceived threats.

“Let us remain vigilant. Let us demand protection. And above all, let us stay alive to continue telling the stories that matter,” the GJA concluded.