DR Congo, Burundi Journalists Shine at Maiden ICGLR Media Awards in Kampala

Three journalists from Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo emerged as the standout winners at the inaugural International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR) Journalism Awards, a landmark event celebrating media excellence in the Great Lakes region.

The awards ceremony, hosted at Makerere University on Monday, marked the climax of a week-long regional training that brought together journalists from across ICGLR member states. The programme focused on strengthening professional reporting around conflict, security, and development issues.

Burundi’s Adiel Bashirahishize and Joyce Guillaine Imanishimwe, alongside DR Congo’s Meschac Tsongo, were recognised for their compelling storytelling and awarded certificates in Multimedia Journalism and Digital Communication.

The training and awards initiative was spearheaded by Makerere University’s Department of Journalism and Communication in collaboration with ICGLR, with support from partners including GIZ and Ultimate Multimedia Consult.

Media’s Role in Shaping Society

Delivering the keynote address, ICGLR Executive Secretary Dr Mubita Luwabelwa underscored the influence of journalists in shaping public discourse.

“Journalists are not bystanders; they are active participants in shaping society. You shine a light in dark places, give voice to the voiceless, and hold leaders accountable,” he said.

He also commended Makerere University’s longstanding academic reputation, noting, “This institution stands as a symbol of intellectual rigour, resilience, and leadership, not only in Uganda but across Africa.”

Dr Luwabelwa highlighted the importance of sustained collaboration, adding, “The Memorandum of Understanding signed here today marks an important step in strengthening collaboration between media institutions and academia.”

Telling a Balanced Regional Story

Uganda’s ICGLR National Coordinator, Ambassador Robert Masolo, challenged journalists to go beyond the dominant narratives of conflict in the region.

“To the outside world, the Great Lakes region is often portrayed through the lens of conflict and instability,” he said. “However, there are also many positive and inspiring developments taking place.”

He urged the media to adopt a more constructive approach: “We call upon journalists to tell authentic, balanced, and constructive stories that promote understanding, unity, and hope.”

Chairperson of the awards jury, Prof. Baba Wamé, revealed that the competition was highly competitive, with strict evaluation standards.

Prof. Wamé emphasised the broader mission of journalism, saying, “Journalism in our region is, above all, a vocation—one that serves truth, peace, and civic education.”

Training for Responsible Reporting

Academics at Makerere University stressed the need for ethical and impactful storytelling.

“Responsible journalism goes beyond simply reporting facts. It considers the impact of the information being shared,” said Dr Gilbert Gumoshabe. “Journalists must strike a balance between truth-telling and avoiding content that may inflame tensions.”

Dr Ivan Lukanda highlighted the value of partnerships in building capacity: “Our goal is to build a critical mass of well-trained media professionals who can contribute to peacebuilding across the region.”

Winners Reflect on Recognition

The award recipients described the honour as both motivating and humbling.

“My work focuses on conflict in my home country, especially in rural and border communities,” said Adiel Bashirahishize. “I aim to highlight both the struggles and resilience of these communities.”

Joyce Guillaine Imanishimwe expressed appreciation for the recognition: “This award is not just for me; it represents the collective effort of colleagues, mentors, and my family.”

For Meschac Tsongo, the accolade signals greater responsibility: “This recognition inspires a renewed commitment to responsible journalism that contributes to stability and progress.”

Dr Lukanda concluded that the Awards signal a growing commitment to recognising media practitioners who promote peace, accountability, and development across the Great Lakes region.