ECOWAS to reward outstanding regional journalists

The Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS, has disclosed that its Media Excellence Award will be held annually. Joel Ahofodji, ECOWAS Commission Head of Communications, disclosed this in Abuja on Wednesday. “Our ambition is to make this event an annual activity that ECOWAS launches to build loyalty among the African media, but also and […]

The Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS, has disclosed that its Media Excellence Award will be held annually.

Joel Ahofodji, ECOWAS Commission Head of Communications, disclosed this in Abuja on Wednesday.

“Our ambition is to make this event an annual activity that ECOWAS launches to build loyalty among the African media, but also and above all to encourage journalists to take an interest in its major achievements and its development programmes, which have a positive impact on the lives of the people of our Member States,” he said.

He said the jury for the ECOWAS Prize for Excellence in Journalism is made up of 7 members, selected for their expertise, integrity and experience in television, radio, print media, online media, photography, human rights and democracy, regional integration and development.

“The members of the jury are responsible for: Examining and assessing the entries submitted according to predefined criteria (quality of work, impact, originality, compliance with journalistic standards, etc.), selecting the winners in each category (television, radio, print, online and photography), ensure that the selection process is fair, transparent and free of any conflicts of interest, respect the confidentiality of the deliberations and information relating to the entries,” Ahofodji said.

Professor Abdoulie Gassama, President of the Jury, charged members to observe objectivity, impartiality, rigorous assessment, respect for ethical standards and excellence in storytelling while assessing entries.

“Let us not forget: our responsibility is significant. Journalism, when done right, inspires change. And our role is to recognise those who have done it right,” he said.