Investigative journalist Edward Adeti, recently honored as the 28th GJA Journalist of the Year, has emphasized that success in journalism transcends geographical boundaries, encouraging aspiring journalists to remain dedicated and impactful in their own communities.
As the first recipient based in northern Ghana, he expressed satisfaction with this achievement, regardless of his residence.
“I don’t see it giving me any joy apart from the joy I get when I eat my favorite food,” he said.
Reflecting on his journey, Mr. Adeti shared that his passion for writing ignited during childhood and continued through secondary school, where he participated in a literary and debating club. Initially contemplating a career in mass communication, he eventually embraced journalism, driven by a desire to champion human rights and expose injustices, despite the profession’s inherent risks. “I thought of pursuing mass communication and majoring in that. At one point, I was teaching, and journalism was just a thought running through my mind until I finally went into it. I’ll say it is fulfilling, but it comes with a lot of threats.”
He acknowledged the challenges journalists face, including financial instability and threats to personal safety. “I believe that no matter what you do, death will come one day. Whether I speak the truth or not, I’ll die someday. But it is only when I get into my room and lock the door behind me that I know I’ve survived.”
He recounted a particularly alarming increase in threats since 2019, which has significantly impacted his personal life. Concern for his family’s safety weighs heavily on him, making him reconsider outings and social gatherings. “I feel more for my kids. Sometimes, when my children leave for school in the morning, I fear it might be the last time I see them.”
Despite these challenges, Mr. Adeti remains steadfast in his commitment to his work. He highlighted the importance of resilience, stating that journalists often confront danger as part of their mission to uphold the truth and protect the rights of others. He encourages his peers to embrace their roles courageously and to persist in their pursuit of justice, even in the face of adversity. “If you find yourself in this profession, you should know you have chosen a path. You’ve signed an agreement to step on people’s toes. I always tell people: never regret stepping on any toe that is standing on people’s rights. In fact, step on feet, not just toes. If there is any foot in your way, step on it. Don’t neglect it. That is what you are supposed to do. The threats will come, but hide from them. And if God says that is how you’ll be taken away, so be it,” he said.
Source: A1Radioonline.Com | 101.1 MHz | Gifty Eyram Kudiabor | Bolgatanga |
