Kumasi, Ghana –In a ceremony graced by some of the nation’s most influential figures — from Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to President John Dramani Mahama — a memorable moment was recorded for the Bono East Region as Anass Sabit, a journalist with JoyNews (Multimedia Group), earned national recognition at the 29th Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Awards.

Held at the iconic Royal Manhyia Palace Museum, the event celebrated journalistic excellence across Ghana. Sabit was recognised for his insightful and compelling report on the Buabeng Fiema Monkey Sanctuary — a story that masterfully wove together the threads of culture, spirituality, and ecology.

The official citation praised his work, stating:

“In your report, you skillfully captured the sacred bond between the people of Buabeng and Fiema and their revered monkeys, celebrating Ghana’s heritage while shedding light on critical challenges such as poor road infrastructure that hinder tourism development.”

It further commended him for exemplifying “journalistic excellence and advocacy for domestic tourism as a catalyst for national growth through your insightful storytelling.”

His story also highlighted the unique traditions of the Buabeng Fiema Monkey Sanctuary, where dead monkeys are buried with rituals similar to those performed for humans.

It further commended him for exemplifying “journalistic excellence and advocacy for domestic tourism as a catalyst for national growth through your insightful storytelling.”

His story also highlighted the unique traditions of the Buabeng Fiema Monkey Sanctuary, where dead monkeys are buried with rituals similar to those performed for humans.

A Victory for Community and Culture

For Sabit, the award is more than a personal accolade — it is a victory for the communities he serves and a louder voice for the stories that matter.

“This award, which is my first national GJA Award, is only going to be a motivator to do more in the coming years,” Sabit stated.

He emphasised that this recognition serves as a powerful “catalyst to do more for the communities I serve,” reinforcing his commitment to advocacy journalism that drives positive change.

His report went beyond the surface, delving into the symbiotic relationship between the people of Buabeng and Fiema and the Mona and Colobus monkeys they protect. By highlighting the sanctuary’s profound cultural and spiritual significance, alongside the tangible obstacle of poor roads, his storytelling effectively bridged the gap between heritage preservation and socio-economic development.

A Heartfelt Acknowledgement

In a moment of reflection and gratitude, Sabit extended his thanks to the divine and his personal support system.

“I want to give thanks to the Most High God for His guidance and protection, and then to my immediate family and friends for their support over the years,” he shared.

This milestone win underscores the growing standard of journalism in the Bono East Region and highlights the powerful role of the media as a partner in national development. As Anass Sabit returns to his work, the golden plaque from the GJA is not just a symbol of past achievement but a beacon guiding his future endeavours to tell more of Ghana’s untold stories.