Uganda National Journalism Awards 2025 shortlist announced: Celebrating excellence in journalism
The African Centre for Media Excellence (ACME) has unveiled the shortlist for the 11th edition of the Uganda National Journalism Awards (UNJA), recognizing exceptional journalism that informs, challenges, and transforms. This year's competition saw a record-breaking 147 journalists participate, with a diverse range of entries showcasing expertise and commitment to public interest reporting. The judges...
The African Centre for Media Excellence (ACME) has unveiled the shortlist for the 11th edition of the Uganda National Journalism Awards (UNJA), recognizing exceptional journalism that informs, challenges, and transforms.
This year's competition saw a record-breaking 147 journalists participate, with a diverse range of entries showcasing expertise and commitment to public interest reporting.
The judges praised the improved quality of entries, particularly in community reporting, environmental issues, and renewable energy. They credited these advancements to increased specialization, professional training, and the motivating influence of the Uganda National Journalism Awards.
However, they also pointed out ongoing challenges, such as poor story structure, lack of coherence, and limited use of data and multimedia formats.
A new format
Last year, the competition changed its format, moving from judging standalone pieces to evaluating bodies of work. Journalists were required to submit between three and five stories per category, allowing for a more comprehensive view of their expertise and ongoing commitment to reporting in the public interest.
This change posed a steeper learning curve for contestants, but it also showcased those who have truly mastered their subjects and aim to enhance audiences' understanding of public affairs through thoughtful, well-researched, and context-rich journalism.
Diverse range of categories
The shortlist features talented journalists across various categories, including:
- Agriculture Reporting: Henry Okurut (UBC Television) and Nelson Mandela Muhoozi (New Vision) - Arts Reporting: Alex Paul Sekitoleko, Moses Serugo & Anthony Gwaro (Framez & Wavez) and Andrew Kaggwa (Daily Monitor) - Business, Economy, and Finance Reporting: Franklin Ezaruku Draku (Daily Monitor) and Ismail Musa Ladu (Daily Monitor) - Climate Change Reporting: Andrew Aijuka (InfoNile, Apes Reporting Project) and Diana Taremwa Karakire (African Arguments, UgPost & IndigenousTimes) - Community Reporting: Alex Ashaba (Daily Monitor) and Benzamin Matata (Voice of Life FM)
Quotes from partners
"We shall be celebrating the finalists who had the courage and confidence in the work they do. Participating in this competition is a sign of confidence. Confidence in the work they do stimulates the stories," said George Lugalambi, ACME Executive Director.
"Being a journalist in Uganda can be challenging, it takes commitment and dedication, therefore it is important to recognize their work and contribution to the stability of the Ugandan society," said Guillaume Chartrain, Deputy Ambassador, EU in Uganda.
"Having gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a gift and not gifting it. By awarding journalists you are encouraging them to do a good job," said Angella Ambaho Kariisa, Senior Public Relations Officer, UNOC.
Participation and representation
The 2025 Uganda National Journalism Awards saw participation from 147 journalists, with women representing 33% and men making up 67% of the entrants. Regional representation revealed a significant concentration from Kampala, where 56% of participants were based.
However, there was also notable engagement from other areas, including 13% from Northern Uganda, 7% from West Nile, and 6% from Central Uganda.
Gala event
The finalists will be honored at a gala evening on May 28, 2025, at Mestil Hotel in Kampala, bringing together media professionals, industry leaders, and supporters to recognize outstanding work and dedication of Uganda's best journalists.
ACME is proud to partner with a diverse group of esteemed organizations and sponsors who have generously supported this year's Uganda National Journalism Awards.
Challenges and opportunities
The judges emphasized the need for greater investment in mentoring, editorial guidance, and experimentation with modern storytelling tools to further raise journalistic standards.
The competition also highlighted the importance of quality reporting in Uganda, particularly in areas such as climate change, health, and education.
As the media industry in Uganda grapples with challenges of sustainability and commercial viability, the Uganda National Journalism Awards serve as a beacon of hope, recognizing and celebrating exceptional journalism that makes a difference in people's lives.
Full list of finalists
The full list of finalists can be found on the ACME website. With the shortlist announced, the anticipation for the gala event is building, and the winners will be announced on May 28, 2025.
