Tema, Ghana – Friday 16 May, 2025
Gabriel Kwamigah-Tanko Atokple, a member of the Council of State from the Volta Region, has called for strategic investments in youth empowerment, infrastructure, and personnel towards the critical role of the media in national development to enable the sector to thrive.
He made these remarks during the official launch of Ahotor FM’s 10th anniversary celebration in Tema, where he served as chairperson under the theme, “10 Years of Ahotor: Elevating Voice, Shaping Tomorrow.”
Delivering his address at the ceremony, Mr. Tanko commended Ahotor FM for its decade-long contribution to public discourse, community development, and information dissemination. He described the anniversary theme, “10 Years of Ahotor: Elevating Voice, Shaping Tomorrow,” as a fitting reflection of the station’s journey and its growing influence in amplifying community voices.
Mr. Tanko remarked that the media is far more than a channel for content delivery. He said media plays a key role in informing the public, encouraging accountability, and ensuring that different perspectives are heard.
However, he cautioned that such a mission cannot be fulfilled by goodwill alone.
“To achieve this effectively, media outlets need more than commitment. They require the right tools, skilled personnel, proper infrastructure, and supportive policies that ensure both press freedom and financial stability. Ahotor FM’s journey over the last decade shows that community-focused media remains relevant. we must continue to support such platforms so they can grow, adapt, and serve the public even more effectively
The Council of State member further highlighted the importance of preparing the next generation of media professionals. He called for deliberate efforts to train and mentor young people who are passionate about media and its related works, pointing out that the sustainability and relevance of the media industry depend on a well-equipped and visionary workforce.
“We must invest in young people by providing them with the necessary skills and guidance to prepare them for the future. The youth possesses great potentials that fit into the modern-day media ecosystem and must be supported,” Mr Tank said
In a symbolic gesture of commitment to the evolving media landscape, Mr. Tanko announced his support for Ahotor FM’s transition toward media convergence. He explained that this shift, which integrates radio, television, and digital platforms, is essential to meeting the demands of modern audiences and expanding employment opportunities in the sector.
“This convergence will not only improve content delivery but also help create new jobs and diversify the way people consume information,” he said.
Ahotor FM, a subsidiary of Universal Multimedia Company Ltd., has over the past decade carved a niche for itself as a community-centred broadcaster, championing local voices and development issues.
The anniversary celebration is expected to continue with a series of community engagements, public forums, and special programming aimed at reaffirming the station’s commitment to development journalism.
