NAIROBI, Kenya, October 24th – The 9th edition of the OFAB-Kenya Media Awards was held with great fanfare as various journalists from across the country received trophies, certificates, and cash prizes. This event recognised their outstanding contributions to enhancing agricultural biotechnology.
Rosa Agutu of the Standard Media was crowned the overall winner in the TV Broadcast category. Mark Mout from North Rift FM was the first runner-up in the Radio category, while Jim Israel Mwanda of JLC News secured the second runner-up position. Cynthia Masibo of Mt Kenya Times claimed the third runner-up slot in the print category.
With over one thousand entries, the shortlisted stories illustrated a more informed, resilient, and food-secure Kenya.
Media Council of Kenya (MCK) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr David Omwoyo congratulated the winning journalists for their achievements and emphasised the critical need to bridge the gap between scientists and journalists.
“We must primarily invest in helping journalists understand scientific concepts by providing them with the tools to break down complex jargon, allowing communities to comprehend the scientists’ work,” said Omwoyo, who was the Chief Guest at the event.
He added, “If journalists don’t understand scientists, then no one will. This also addresses complaints from scientists about being misquoted by the media.”
He expressed his disappointment that many people and institutions do not recognise the media for providing accurate coverage, particularly when exposing corruption. “Everyone demands a lot from the media.”
Omwoyo urged journalists to localise their stories on food security as per UN guidelines, promoting better agricultural yields and reducing diseases to avoid losing community interest.
Nehemiah Ng’etich, Acting CEO of the National Biosafety Authority (NBA), stated that in biosafety, facts are not optional; they are essential for shaping policy, regulations, and innovations.
“Reporters need to provide accurate and clear information on complex topics like gene editing and GMOs. This equips policymakers to engage with evidence-based stories rather than rumours,” Ng’etich emphasised, highlighting the importance of verifying claims with multiple sources.
The organisation is committed to deepening its partnership with the media.
Dr Margaret Karembu, founding director of ISAAA-Africenter noted the significance of celebrating and recognising the critical role the media plays across various platforms, including print, digital, radio, and television. She called on journalists to defend science through fact-based reporting and to leverage their fact-checking abilities to combat misinformation.
“OFAB Kenya offers a platform where journalists can share knowledge, experiences, and lessons learned over time,” she said.
As the pioneering chapter of OFAB Africa, the organisation continues to expand its presence, with additional chapters in Tanzania, Uganda, Ethiopia, Malawi, Ghana, and Rwanda over the past eight years.
Most of the winners expressed their gratitude for the recognition and vowed to continue amplifying voices in agricultural innovations for the benefit of society.
The overall winner received Sh100,000, the first runner-up received Sh75,000, the second runner-up received Sh50,000, and the third runner-up received Sh25,000.
