Nairobi, Kenya, 23 October 2024 – Nairobi, Kenya, 23 October 2024 – The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) in partnership with the USAID proudly hosted the 2024 edition of the IGAD Media Awards at the Argyle Hotel in Nairobi, Kenya. The Awards celebrated 18 exceptional media professionals for their outstanding contributions to journalism across the IGAD region. With the theme “Narratives of Hope: Inspiring Peaceful, Secure, and Inclusive Futures,” the ceremony acknowledged the media’s crucial role in promoting peace, security, and regional integration.
H.E. Aden Duale, Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change & Forestry, represented H.E. Dr. William Samoei Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya, as the Chief Guest. In his address, H.E. Duale reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to press freedom and highlighted the pivotal role of journalists in building peace and fostering dialogue in the region.
IGAD Executive Secretary, H.E. Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, praised the invaluable contribution of journalists in shaping narratives of hope within communities grappling with conflict, displacement, and socio-economic challenges. He stated, “The media is a vital conduit for information and understanding in our region. It provides the platform to unite our voices and overcome the issues we face. These awards are a tribute to the courage, creativity, and dedication of journalists who choose to tell stories that inspire change and progress.”
Winners and Benefits
This year, 18 winners were chosen from over 500 submissions spanning print, radio, television, and digital media. The winners will receive certificates, token prizes, and an exclusive invitation to participate in a one-day workshop focused on IGAD’s work within the region. Additionally, they will be accredited to attend major IGAD events, granting them access to regional assemblies and expert briefings.
For more information about the winners and IGAD’s work in supporting journalism in the region, please visit www.mediaawards.igad.int/2024winners
About IGAD Media Awards:
The IGAD Media Awards celebrate excellence in journalism and media across the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) region. Recognising the media’s vital role in promoting peace, stability, and regional integration, the awards honour journalists, media outlets, and storytellers committed to ethical reporting and fostering dialogue.
Organised annually, the awards focus on diverse themes each year, reflecting the evolving challenges and opportunities within the region. With categories spanning from investigative journalism to digital storytelling, the awards showcase a range of media talent.
The competition is open to practising journalists, freelancers, and media practitioners from mainstream or multimedia outlets in the eight IGAD countries: Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, and Uganda. Foreign media practitioners are also welcome to participate. For eligibility rules, visit https://mediaawards.igad.int/eligibility. For enquiries, email mediaawards@igad.int. No entry fee is required.
Winners are invited to a one-day training on IGAD’s work, challenges, and achievements, providing an opportunity for networking. They also receive accreditation to participate in major IGAD events, gaining access to assemblies, content, and expert insights. Additionally, winners receive certificates and token prizes in recognition of their contributions.
About IGAD:
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) is a regional economic community that is pivotal in promoting cooperation and integration among its member countries. Comprising eight member states—Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, and Uganda—IGAD seeks to foster peace, security, and sustainable development across the Horn of Africa, the Nile Valley, and the Great Lakes region.
Established in 1986 as the Intergovernmental Authority on Drought and Development (IGADD), the organisation initially focused on drought control and development initiatives. In 1996, its mandate was expanded, and it was rebranded as IGAD, with an increased emphasis on peacebuilding, economic integration, and regional development.
IGAD’s headquarters are in Djibouti City, Republic of Djibouti, which currently chairs the organisation. The Executive Secretary of IGAD is H.E. Dr Workneh Gebeyehu, who oversees the implementation of IGAD’s mission to enhance regional cooperation, peace, security, and development across its member states.
For more information, please visit: www.igad.int
Photos:
Media Contact:
Austine Opata
Head of Communications, IGAD
Email: austine.opata@igad.int
Phone: +25377267283
