In a ceremony brimming with the nation's most influential figures, from the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to President John Dramani Mahama, a piece of broadcasting history was written for the Bono East Region.

Anass Sabit, a journalist with JoyNews (Multimedia), was honoured at the 29th Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Awards, marking not only his first national award but also a major achievement for his region.

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 skilfully 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.”

The story also shares the unique nature of the Buabeng Fiema Monkey Sanctuary, where dead monkeys are buried after the performance of some rituals, just as humans do.

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 the 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 he serves”, reinforcing his commitment to advocacy journalism that drives positive change.

His report went beyond the surface, delving into the unique 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 Acknowledgment

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 the guidance and protection and then to my immediate family and friends for the support over the years,” he shared.

This historic win signals a rising standard of journalism in the Bono East Region and underscores 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.