About the opportunity
Established in 1996, the SADC Media Awards recognise outstanding media work that contributes to disseminating information on the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and promoting greater public understanding of the regional integration agenda. The competition seeks to honour journalists who demonstrate excellence, originality, accuracy, depth of research, and impact in reporting on SADC matters, regional cooperation, and integration. It highlights the media’s vital role in informing citizens about SADC programmes, policies, initiatives, and achievements. Entries are accepted across four categories: Photo Journalism, Print Journalism, Television Journalism, and Radio Journalism. The winners will be announced during the Opening Ceremony of the 47th SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government in the Republic of Zambia.
Funding and benefits
- First prize winner in each of the four categories receives US$2,500.
- Runner-up in each of the four categories receives US$1,000.
- Winners will be announced and honoured during the Opening Ceremony of the 47th SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government in the Republic of Zambia.
Who can apply?
- Open to journalists from all SADC Member States.
- Entries must focus on SADC, regional cooperation, integration, policies, programmes, or achievements.
Required documents
- Completed entry form with all required information typed in.
When to apply
- Application deadline is 28 February 2027.
- Winners will be announced at the 47th SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government in Zambia.
How to apply
- Obtain further information and entry forms from the SADC National Media Coordinators (SNMCs) in your respective Member State or from the SADC website.
- Complete the entry form with all required information typed in.
- Submit the completed entry form to the respective SADC National Media Coordinator in your Member State by 28 February 2027.
Additional information
- The competition comprises four categories: Photo Journalism, Print Journalism, Television Journalism, and Radio Journalism.
- For further enquiries, contact Ms Barbara Lopi (blopi@sadc.int), Mr Innocent Mbvundula (imbvundula@sadc.int), or Ms Tirelo Senwelo (tsenwelo@sadc.int) at the SADC Secretariat, or call +267 395 1863.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Journalists and media practitioners based in SADC Member States with published or broadcast work focusing on regional integration.
- Professionals skilled in photo, print, television, or radio journalism who want international recognition for their reporting on African regional development.
- Writers and broadcasters seeking both monetary prizes and high-profile visibility at a SADC Heads of State and Government summit.
What should you think carefully about?
- Applications must be submitted through your specific country's SADC National Media Coordinator (SNMC), requiring careful attention to local submission channels and deadlines.
- Competition is restricted exclusively to nationals or media workers of SADC Member States.
- Entries must strictly align with the themes of SADC regional cooperation, integration, and development.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This competition suits media practitioners aiming to elevate their professional profile, gain regional recognition, and validate impactful journalism centered on African integration and policy. Winning provides a prestigious platform at a major regional summit alongside financial rewards.
Our take
Journalists reporting on regional issues within SADC Member States should strongly consider applying. Those outside the SADC region or working on unrelated topics are not eligible.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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