Deputy Minister in the Presidency Kenny Morolong has called on Southern Africa’s journalists to take ownership of the region’s story, saying the SADC Media Awards remain one of the most powerful platforms for shaping a shared regional identity.
Speaking at the 2025 SADC Media Awards dinner — where the 2026 competition was also launched — Morolong said the awards, established in 1996, continue to recognise media work that strengthens regional cooperation and integration.
“The story of Southern Africa cannot be left to be told by others. It must be told by us, in our voices, through our own lens and lived experiences. Through the awards, we honour excellence… and the crucial role journalists play in shaping narratives that strengthen our regional identity and solidarity,” he said at the ceremony in Pretoria on Friday.
Morolong stressed that the awards celebrate depth, accuracy and integrity rather than sensationalism.
“The awards judge entrants not by the number of headlines they provoke, but by the depth, accuracy and integrity of their craft.
“The media professionals we celebrate today have dedicated hours, weeks and even months investigating matters of public interest.”
He said such commitment is vital in an era “dominated by disinformation and misinformation”, adding that the awards honour journalists not only as storytellers but as guardians of truth and connectors of citizens across borders.
“Through their words, images and voices, they document the collective growth and development of our people.
“By celebrating their work, we acknowledge the importance of authentic storytelling in strengthening democracy and promoting mutual respect among our peoples.”
Morolong added that every story reflecting cooperation in energy, transport, water, trade or security “serves as a thread in the greater fabric of regional unity”.
Winners reflect on the power of authentic journalism
This year, 29 entries were submitted for regional adjudication, with South Africa contributing four across all categories.
BBC Radio journalist Mpho Lakaje, who won the Radio Category (Regional), said the recognition was encouraging.
“It energises one to keep going and to do more,” he told SAnews, urging emerging journalists to “stick to the basics of journalism” and maintain authenticity.
Lakaje freelances for outlets including BBC Radio Africa and eNCA, and is the creator of Against All Odds with Mpho Lakaje, which aired over 200 episodes between 2012 and 2016.
Dikeledi Molobela from SAnews, winner of the Print Category (National), said the award was deeply affirming.
“Journalism can be a tough and often thankless profession, so being recognised in this way truly means a lot.
“Part of my job is to cover The Presidency, and I’ve had the privilege of reporting on President Ramaphosa’s strong commitment to peace, stability and cooperation in our region. It’s always a pleasure to tell those stories and help keep our people informed about the work being done to build a safer, more united SADC.”
Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) communicator Rinae Nemaungani, a second-time award recipient, was honoured in the Photography Category. She first won in 2023 as an intern in the GCIS Radio Unit.
“A few years ago, I was honoured to stand behind this very podium receiving a SADC Media Award in the Radio Category, and now to be recognised again, this time in Photography, is something I’m deeply grateful for,” she said.
Winning in a new category reminded her that “growth never stops”.
“For me, this journey shows how powerful storytelling can be, no matter the medium,” Nemaungani said.
The Television Category winner was Reitumetse Sankola from the SABC.
2026 competition officially open
Morolong officially opened entries for the 2026 SADC Media Awards, which close in February next year. The competition is open to journalists from all SADC member states.
Since 1996, the awards have recognised excellence in print, photo, television and radio journalism that advances regional cooperation and integration. — SAnews.gov.za
