Kenny Morolong Urges SADC Journalists to Own Regional Story as 2026 Awards Launch

Morolong said that since their establishment in 1996, the SADC Media Awards have honoured journalism that captures the complexities, aspirations and lived realities of Southern Africans.

Deputy Minister in the Presidency Kenny Morolong has called on Southern Africa’s journalists to take ownership of the region’s narrative, emphasising that the SADC Media Awards remain one of the most influential platforms for building a shared regional identity. Speaking at the 2025 SADC Media Awards dinner in Pretoria — where the 2026 competition was officially launched — Morolong praised the awards for uplifting journalism that deepens regional cooperation, integration and democratic values.

“The story of Southern Africa must be told by us”

Morolong said that since their establishment in 1996, the SADC Media Awards have honoured journalism that captures the complexities, aspirations and lived realities of Southern Africans.

“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.”

He emphasised that the awards reward depth, accuracy and integrity, not sensationalism or headline-chasing.

“Entrants are judged not by the number of headlines they provoke, but by the depth and integrity of their craft.”

In an era of rising misinformation and disinformation, Morolong said journalists serve not only as storytellers but as guardians of truth, custodians of public knowledge and connectors of citizens across borders.

Journalism as a Bridge Across the Region

Morolong described authentic storytelling as essential to strengthening democracy and fostering mutual respect among SADC nations.

He said stories on energy cooperation, cross-border trade, water management, transport integration and regional security are more than individual reports — they are threads woven into the fabric of SADC unity.

Winners Share Reflections on Authentic Storytelling

This year, 29 entries were submitted for regional adjudication, with South Africa contributing four.

Radio Category (Regional)

Mpho Lakaje, freelance journalist for BBC Radio Africa, eNCA and host of Against All Odds, won the top prize. He said the honour reaffirmed his commitment to journalism:

“It energises one to keep going and to do more… Emerging journalists must stick to the basics and remain authentic.”

Print Category (National)

Dikeledi Molobela of SAnews said recognition in a challenging profession was deeply meaningful.

She highlighted how covering The Presidency allowed her to document President Ramaphosa’s work to advance peace, stability and cooperation across SADC, a privilege she said strengthens unity in the region.

Photography Category

Rinae Nemaungani of GCIS was honoured for the second time, having first won in 2023.

“Winning in a new category shows that growth never stops. Storytelling is powerful in every medium.”

Television Category

The winner was Reitumetse Sankola from the SABC, recognised for impactful broadcast storytelling.

2026 SADC Media Awards Now Open

Morolong officially opened entries for the 2026 SADC Media Awards, which close in February 2026. All journalists from SADC member states are eligible to enter.

Since 1996, the awards have recognised excellence in:

• Print Journalism

• Photography

• Television Journalism

• Radio Journalism

— all with a shared purpose: to advance regional integration, unity and cooperation.

A Renewed Call for Regional Storytelling

Morolong concluded by urging the region’s media practitioners to continue pursuing authentic, ethical and courageous journalism, saying this work is essential to building a more connected, informed and united Southern Africa.