Deadline: January 5, 2026
The KAS Media Africa Local Journalism Award 2026 is now open for applications! This prestigious award, organized by the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS) through its regional Media Programme for Sub-Saharan Africa, aims to celebrate and support outstanding examples of local journalism across the continent. The award highlights journalists who bring untold local stories to light, connecting community realities to national and global conversations while maintaining the highest standards of reporting.
About the KAS Media Africa Local Journalism Award 2026
The KAS Media Africa Local Journalism Award 2026 recognizes the crucial role of local journalism in fostering informed communities and strengthening democracy. It focuses on storytelling rooted in African communities — stories that reflect local experiences, challenges, and successes, and that make meaningful connections between local and global issues.
This award is open to journalists and content creators working in print, online, audio, video, or social media journalism projects. It celebrates innovation, creativity, and journalistic integrity in covering issues that matter most to African communities.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the KAS Media Africa Local Journalism Award 2026:
- The submitted work must have been published in 2025.
- Entries can be submitted in English or French.
- Journalists may submit stories in print, online, audio, video, or innovative social-media formats.
- Each submission should include a brief description of the story’s background, the platform where it was published, and the impact or audience reactions (such as engagement, reach, and feedback).
- The entry must adhere to professional journalistic standards of accuracy, fairness, and public relevance.
Award Benefits
Winners of the KAS Media Africa Local Journalism Award 2026 will receive significant recognition and opportunities to grow their journalistic careers.
- Top three winners will be invited to attend the Regional Local Journalism Conference scheduled to take place in Malawi in February 2026.
- Winners will also receive cash awards or financial recognition to further support their ongoing work or future reporting projects.
- In addition, the award promotes networking and exchange among journalists across Africa, fostering collaboration and sharing of best practices.
This recognition not only provides financial and professional rewards but also amplifies the voices of local journalists working to bring authentic African stories to a broader audience.
Application Deadline
The deadline for submissions is January 5, 2026.
All entries must be sent via email to the official address provided by the organizers, including the required documentation and project details. Late submissions will not be considered.
Why This Award Matters
Local journalism is at the heart of democratic societies, serving as the voice of communities often overlooked in mainstream narratives. Through the KAS Media Africa Local Journalism Award 2026, journalists gain an opportunity to highlight impactful local stories that inspire change and accountability.
This initiative not only strengthens the local media landscape but also ensures that diverse African perspectives are represented globally. For journalists across the continent, it’s a chance to gain visibility, recognition, and valuable professional networks that can propel their careers forward.
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