By Luganda David Nsiyonna, Climate and Media Correspondent
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia — The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has officially announced the jury for the 2025 IGAD Media Awards, a prestigious recognition of journalistic excellence across the region. The awards ceremony is set to take place in Addis Ababa at the end of this month, bringing together leading voices in media, storytelling, and public communication.
According to a LinkedIn post by Patience Nyange, IGAD’s Spokesperson and a renowned media and communications expert, this year’s celebration is “another opportunity to honour journalists, content creators, and storytellers who are shaping Africa’s narrative.” Nyange emphasized the importance of credibility, diversity, and excellence in the selection of the jury, describing them as “a distinguished panel of media professionals from across the region.”
Meet the 2025 IGAD Media Awards Jury
The 21-member jury reflects a rich tapestry of experience and expertise, spanning television, radio, print, digital media, filmmaking, and media training. Their collective mandate is to evaluate submissions that spotlight impactful journalism and transformative storytelling.
Jury Members Include:
- Sophia Matovu – Chair, TV Production Manager
- Rose Bukirwa – Chief News Editor
- Tabitha John – Senior News Anchor
- Dr. Mercy Korir – Co-Founder and Editor-in-Chief
- Sabri Cadaawe – CEO, Groupe Fouzo Media Inc
- Dorcus Drijaru – Multimedia Manager
- Asha Khamisi – Senior Radio News Editor
- Abdinur Mohamed – Communications Expert
- Abdiqani Abdullahi – Media Strategist & Editor, SONNA
- Christine Nguku – Assistant Director, Media Training
- Al Bashir Dahab – Journalist and Media Trainer
- Mohamed Osman – Editorial Consultant
- Hibaq Ahmed Issa – Head of Recover and Litigation
- Dirbdil Assefa – Filmmaker and Producer
- Abdirahman Aden – Senior Broadcast Journalist
- Eltayeb Siddig – Filmmaker and Creative Director
- Charles Lotara – Experienced Editor & Certified Fact-checker
- Shishay Equar – Coordinator and Lecturer
- Patrick Oyet – Senior News Producer
- Nasser Fahmi – Deputy Director and Editor-in-Chief
- Adeng Mayik – Multimedia Journalist
The IGAD Media Awards have become a cornerstone for recognizing journalistic integrity and innovation in Eastern Africa. From climate reporting to conflict-sensitive journalism, the awards highlight stories that elevate public discourse and foster regional development.
This year’s ceremony in Addis Ababa is expected to draw high-level participation from government officials, media houses, civil society, and youth-led organizations. It will also feature thematic panels, networking sessions, and showcases of award-winning content.
As IGAD continues to champion media freedom and regional integration, the 2025 jury stands as a testament to the power of storytelling in shaping Africa’s future.
