The Volta Regional branch of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has officially commenced the construction of Phase Two of the Volta Press Centre project in Ho, setting in motion a renewed drive to complete the facility by next year’s World Press Freedom Day.

The project, which has been on the drawing board for several years, is receiving strong backing from the Volta Regional Minister, Hon. James Gunu, who has pledged his full support to ensure its timely completion. The commencement of Phase Two comes just three months after the swearing-in of the current regional executives of the association, signalling their determination to deliver on promises made to members.

Speaking during a briefing with journalists, Hon. Gunu stressed the importance of the Press Centre as a hub for media growth and civic engagement in the region.

“The media plays a vital role in our democracy, and it is only proper that they have a modern facility to support their work. By next year’s World Press Freedom Day, we should not only be celebrating freedom of expression but also commissioning this centre as a symbol of progress and partnership,” the Regional Minister stated.

He called on journalists, institutions, and corporate organizations to contribute towards the completion of the project, emphasizing that the centre would serve both media practitioners and the wider community.

The Chairman of Volta GJA, Dr. Harrison Kofi Belley, also rallied members to fulfill commitments made during previous fundraising campaigns.

“We must walk the talk. Those who pledged support should redeem them now. Beyond that, each of us has a responsibility to engage companies, agencies, and individuals who can support this noble vision. This is a collective project, and with determination, we can meet our deadline,” Dr. Belley urged.

The Press Centre, when completed, will provide office spaces, training facilities, and a resource hub for journalists, enabling professional development while also serving as a convening space for public dialogue.

For many journalists, the facility represents not just a building, but a landmark project that affirms the relevance and resilience of the profession in the Volta Region. It is also expected to host seminars, conferences, and training workshops that would further enhance the capacity of the media to uphold the values of truth, accountability, and nation-building.

The GJA leadership is hopeful that with continued stakeholder support, Phase Two of the Volta Press Centre will be completed and officially commissioned on May 3, 2026, to coincide with World Press Freedom Day.