Commit to promoting safety of journalists

Mr Godwin Avenorgbo, the Director of Communications for Melcom Group of Companies, Thursday, urged citizens to contribute their quota to ensure the safety of journalists to enable them to play their roles in furthering the cause of national socio-economic development.

He said the attack on journalists signified a direct attack on democratic principles, such as free speech and freedom of expression.

“We must all do our best to ensure the safety of journalists so that they can play a relevant role in the processes that this country is engaged in, as far as development is concerned,” he said.

Mr Avenorgbo made these remarks when the national executive of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) and the Institute of Financial and Economic Journalists (IFEJ) paid a courtesy call on the management of Melcom Group of Companies, in Accra.

The two professional bodies had appealed to the supermarket chain to support their awards ceremony.

The GJA will climax its 70th Anniversary with an Awards Night ceremony on November 23, at the Kempinski Gold Coast Hotel.

The Melcom Group responded with a donation of assorted items, including television sets, shopping vouchers, a variety of soft and alcoholic drinks to support the ceremony.

Mr Avenorgbo expressed appreciation to GJA and IFEJ for the visit, adding that, the Melcom brand would continue to represent unity, encouragement and motivation amongst journalists.

He congratulated the GJA on its 70th Anniversary Celebration, and IFEJ for its consistency in organising seminars and other events that boost the knowledge of Journalists.

Mr Affail Monney, the GJA President said Melcom was a reputable brand, which continued to provide a reliable and consistent support due to its strategic partnership with the media.

He commended the company for not only expanding its business but also multiplying jobs, creating wealth and helping to grow the economy.

“Our prayer is that Melcom would continue to expand with the hope that the dividends would ripple to the media industry and the nation as a whole,” he added.

Mr Rayborn Bulley, President of IFEJ expressed appreciation to the Company for always going to their aid.

“Melcom has been consistent and have always given us what we ask for,” he said. “This year, they are giving us in kind because these are the things we need. We need these drinks, these pieces of merchandise to support our awards itself and the awards night, which is gala dinner night.

“We appreciate the kind gesture because it will relieve us of a huge financial burden”.