Signs TV Awarded at the 2025 AJEA Awards for Dedication to Inclusive Journalism
The Kenyan media fraternity gathered at the Edge Convention Centre in South C, Nairobi on Friday evening for the 13th Annual Journalism Excellence Awards (AJEA). The annual event, organized by the Media Council of Kenya (MCK), serves as a premier platform to recognize and celebrate the achievements and professionalism within the nation's media industry.
Stella Kaaria, Manager, Board Services and coordinator at the Media Council, opened by expressing gratitude to the event's sponsors. She highlighted their crucial role, stating, "Our sponsors have been steadfast partners in our journey of enhancing media freedom."
The esteemed list of sponsors included Huawei Kenya, the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), the Kenya Tourism Board, the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA), the Anti-Counterfeit Authority, the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA), the Aga Khan University, the Public Relations Society of Kenya (PRSK), KCB Bank, and Journalists for Human Rights (JHR).
Victor Bwire, Director of Media Training and Development at MCK, noted that the AJEA is a significant annual occasion. He elaborated that this 13th iteration of the awards spanned three days, with the initial day dedicated to an important discussion on the mental health of journalists.
Representing the nomination and judging panels for AJEA 2025, Owino Opondo provided insights into the selection process. He reported that a total of 809 entries were received this year, a decrease from the 1081 submissions in the previous year. A team of 17 judges was involved in the adjudication, with Opondo extending his sincere thanks for their tireless efforts in determining the finalists and winners. The process involved a nomination panel of nine members in the first stage, followed by a judging panel of eight members.
Opondo also observed a notable "increase in vernacular stations." However, he pointed out an emerging issue of language inconsistency in stories shared, advising that "it is good to sustain the language" used throughout a report to maintain clarity and professionalism.
The Media Council of Kenya's CEO, David Omwoyo, commended journalists for their dedication and exemplary work throughout the year. He extended his congratulations to all the finalist. He also reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to rewarding exceptional storytelling, no matter the platform.
A special highlight of the evening was the Lifetime Achievement Award - presentation of the Judges Recognition to Signs TV for our "dedication to journalism against all odds," an acknowledgment of our commitment to impactful reporting.
This award recognizes our dedication to going beyond just reporting the news. Whether it's providing accessible coverage of elections, bringing you the excitement of sports, or sharing the richness of entertainment, we always strive to amplify disability awareness, ensure inclusive storytelling, utilize adaptive technology to break down barriers, and advocate for equality for everyone.
Tags: Media Council Of Kenya
