Journalists Honoured for Excellence at National Awards in Juba

(JUBA) – Journalists from across South Sudan have been recognised for their professional achievements at the third Union of Journalists of South Sudan Journalism Excellence Awards, held on 18 December 2025 at Crown Hotel in Juba. The event brought together media professionals, partners and supporters to celebrate quality reporting and its role in national development.

The awards were held under the theme “honouring journalism that reforms, empowers and unites the people of South Sudan”. Organisers said the theme reflected the important role of the media in shaping public understanding, promoting accountability and supporting peace in the country.

Ten journalists were honoured for outstanding work across different reporting categories. The awards recognised consistent effort, accuracy and commitment to serving the public interest through journalism.

Special recognition was given to journalists who are alumni of the Association for Media Development in South Sudan. According to the organisers, these journalists won five of the ten awards, an indication of the contribution of training and professional development to the quality of reporting in the country.

The award winners included Jennifer James Ogawi for health reporting, Simon Deng for education reporting, Daniel Garang Deng for democracy reporting with a focus on elections and constitution making, Awan Achiek for business and economy reporting, and Matik Kueth for humanitarian reporting. Their work was praised for addressing key issues affecting communities across South Sudan.

Other journalists were also honoured in different categories, reflecting the diversity of reporting across the media sector. Speakers at the event said the awards showed that journalism continues to play a strong role in informing citizens and encouraging dialogue.

Partners and organisers were thanked for supporting the awards and the wider development of the media sector. Organisations such as the National Press Association of South Sudan, JICA South Sudan and UNESCO South Sudan were acknowledged for their continued support to journalism and media development.

Although no prize money was publicly announced, organisers said the value of the awards lies in professional recognition and encouragement.

The event concluded with congratulations to all the winners, with organisers encouraging journalists to continue producing accurate and responsible reporting. They said strong journalism remains essential for informing the public, strengthening institutions and supporting unity in South Sudan.