WPFD 2025: My mandate is to serve, not to enrich myself - Stephen Adom

The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Ho, Hon. Stephen Adom, has reaffirmed his commitment to partnering with the media in the region, underscoring the importance of transparency and accountability in governance.

He emphasized that his primary responsibility is to serve the people of the Ho Municipality and promote development.

Speaking at the 2025 World Press Freedom Day Celebration held at the Ho Press Center, Hon. Adom highlighted his readiness to engage openly with media professionals. He assured that his office remains accessible to journalists and media houses to foster effective communication and cooperation.

"I am committed to working with everyone, including the media, to achieve development goals," he said. "My office is always open to the media fraternity to enhance good information and collaboration."

Themed "Reporting in The Brave New World — The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and The Media," this year’s celebration brought together veteran journalists, media organizations, and other stakeholders.

In support of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Press Center Project, Hon. Adom pledged a donation of GH₵5,000.00, which he said would be made in collaboration with the Member of Parliament. He acknowledged the media’s critical role in advancing development and holding public officials accountable.

Also present at the event was the District Chief Executive (DCE) for Ho West, Hon. Francis Dussey, who encouraged the media to visit his district to explore opportunities for tourism promotion. He pledged GH₵1,000.00 and an additional 50 bags of cement on behalf of the Member of Parliament toward the Press Center Project.

The DCE for Akatsi North, Hon. Bless Kodzo Katamani, echoed similar sentiments about the media’s importance in national development. He donated GH₵6,000.00 to the project, also in partnership with the local MP.

The President of the Volta and Oti Chapter of the GJA, Mr. Emmanuel Agbaxorde, appealed for continued support to complete the Press Center. He expressed gratitude to individuals and institutions that have contributed and encouraged them to do even more.

Volta Regional Minister Hon. James Gunu also announced a GH₵10,000.00 donation to the chapter and gave his assurance that he would help see the project through to completion before the next World Press Freedom Day.

As a member of the Association and initiator of the Press Center idea, Hon. Gunu stated his personal commitment to ensuring the project’s success.

The event brought together district chief executives, journalists, and other media stakeholders in the Volta and Oti Regions, united in their call for enhanced press freedom and development.