GNA Undertakes Major Renovation to Modernize Operations
Dr. Nana Charles Sifa Twum, Acting Board Chairman of the Ghana News Agency (GNA), recently conducted an inspection of the renovation works taking place at the Agency’s head office in Accra. This initiative is part of a broader effort to modernize the GNA and enhance its operational efficiency. The refurbishment is being carried out under a comprehensive operational restructuring programme funded by the African Development Bank through the Post COVID-19 Skills Development and Productivity Enhancement Project (PSDPEP). The project aims to strengthen professionalism and align the Agency with contemporary media standards.
During his visit, Dr. Twum emphasized that the project will position the GNA to better meet current demands in journalism. He highlighted the importance of improving coverage across various sectors, including government, civil society, traditional authorities, and national affairs. “It is encouraging that we are undertaking this effort to refresh and modernise our image,” he said.
The reforms go beyond physical infrastructure. They also focus on enhancing editorial standards and staff capacity. Dr. Twum mentioned that a comprehensive orientation programme would be introduced to improve the quality of reporting. “Your reporting must justify that choice through strong arguments, professionalism and a fresh perspective. This is the kind of mindset and training we intend to instil through our new orientation,” he added.
Dr. Twum expressed satisfaction with the pace of work and commended the contractor for their efforts. Despite some delays, which he acknowledged are common in most construction projects, he noted the remarkable progress made so far. He also stated that the Board is confident the reforms will reposition the GNA ahead of its 70th anniversary.
Mr. Harrison Kobina Addo, the project’s lead engineer, provided an update on the status of the renovations. He mentioned that the works are approximately 85 per cent complete, with a focus on interior finishing to allow staff to resume operations. “We are confident the work will be completed within the next two to three weeks, and we have now achieved about 85 per cent completion,” he said.
The five-year PSDPEP programme has a total grant of $31.34 million, with $28.5 million coming from the African Development Bank and $2.8 million from the Government of Ghana. The initiative covers five beneficiary institutions, including the GNA, the Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC), the Biotechnology Centre, the School of Nursing and Midwifery, and the Microbiology Centre of the University of Ghana.
Work on the GNA project began on May 12, 2025, with similar renovations ongoing at its offices in Tema, Tamale, and Takoradi. The programme is designed to support Ghana’s post-pandemic recovery by promoting skills development, job creation, and private sector growth.
