The editors’ Forum of Namibia (EFN) has emphasised the role of a free and robust press as the bedrock of a flourishing democracy.
This comes as the EFN prepares to host the media awards next Thursday in partnership with First National Bank (FNB) Namibia.
The event, inspired by the legacy of the Pulitzer Prize, anticipates captivating more than 200 guests, including 70 distinguished invitees. Tickets are available at a cost of N$850 each.
In a statement, EFN secretary general Selma Ikela and the forum’s chairperson, Frank Steffen, underscored the significance of the event, particularly as the media industry navigates unprecedented challenges in the post-Covid era.
“Today, journalists, the unsung heroes at the forefront of this crusade for credible information, often grapple with burnout, mental health issues and the uncertainty of job guarantees as they tirelessly deliver critical news to the public.”
Ikela and Steffen said the role of the media includes holding the powerful accountable and empowering citizens with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions.
President Hage Geingob has been invited as the guest of honour, recognising his pivotal role in upholding press freedom in Namibia.
President Geingob has always maintained his commitment to press freedom and freedom of expression during his tenure.
In 2018, after a hiatus of over a decade, the EFN resurrected the Namibian Journalism Awards with a mission to promote professional excellence across various media platforms.
The awards will span seven categories: Politics and Public Governance; Agriculture, Environment, Forestry and Fisheries; Education, Health and Social Development; Mining and Energy; Business Finance and Economic Development; Sport and Best Visual Storytelling.
Each winner will receive a cash prize of N$15 000 and a certificate.
The 2023 Journalist of the Year Award will be presented with a cash reward of N$25 000 and a certificate.
The award will be conferred by the adjudicators after they have assessed all the 169 entries from 59 journalists.
Keynote speaker Jacques Pauw, a renowned South African investigative journalist, author and recipient of the Windhoek Scroll, will shed light on his latest work, ‘Our Poisoned Land’.
Additionally, the event will feature a virtual interview with world-renowned Israeli author and historian Yuval Noah Harari,
discussing the profound impact of artificial intelligence on journalism’s future.
Other sponsors are Ohlthaver & List (silver sponsor), Old Mutual, Cecil Nurse, Hollard Namibia, Feedmaster and One Pencil Project, who are supporting various award categories.
The EFN Journalism Awards serve as a beacon of recognition for outstanding journalistic endeavours in 2021 and 2022, while inspiring emerging journalists to aspire to greater heights.
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