The Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, has praised media practitioners in the region for their responsible reporting, describing their work as an important contributor to peace, security and national cohesion.

He said journalists in the region have consistently exercised professionalism by avoiding sensational and divisive reporting that could undermine social harmony.

Mr Gunu made the remarks when a delegation from the National College of Defence Studies (NCDS) paid a courtesy call on him at the Volta Regional Coordinating Council (VRCC) as part of a research study on national cohesion, security and sustainable development.

“Their coverage does not compromise the cohesion and security of the region. I must put it on record that we have no reckless media in this region,” he said.

According to the minister, the media’s commitment to factual and balanced reporting has helped prevent misunderstandings and contributed to the peace and stability enjoyed in the region.

Mr Gunu also attributed the relative peace in the Volta Region to its cultural heritage, shared language and longstanding tradition of tolerance and peaceful coexistence.

He noted that traditional festivals serve as opportunities for reconciliation and unity among community members.

“Culture plays a key role in uniting our communities. During traditional festivals, there are rituals where if you have something against me, we forgive each other before we go to the celebration,” he said.

The minister further highlighted the role of the Ewe language in promoting communication and understanding among residents across the region despite variations in dialect.

He also pointed to intertribal marriages as another factor strengthening social cohesion and integration among communities.

Mr Gunu stressed that the peace and unity in the Volta Region are the result of collaboration among traditional authorities, security agencies, local assemblies, civil society organisations and residents.

“The peace and unity of the Volta Region are not accidental. They are the result of conscious efforts by institutions and individuals working together for the common good,” he said.

Leading the NCDS delegation, Brigadier General Eric Konadu, Deputy Commandant of the College, said the Volta Region was selected for the study because of its reputation as one of Ghana’s most peaceful regions.

He explained that the research seeks to identify factors contributing to the region’s stability and compare them with findings from similar studies being conducted in the Ashanti Region and other jurisdictions outside Ghana.

According to Brigadier General Konadu, the findings will be used to develop policy recommendations aimed at strengthening national cohesion and security across the country.

“The objective is to understand how cohesion has contributed to peace and stability in the Volta Region and to translate those lessons into practical recommendations that can guide national policy,” he said.