The IGAD Media Awards 2026, themed "Human Mobility for Regional Integration: Free Movement, Decent Work, Protection and Shared Prosperity," aims to recognize and reward outstanding journalism that highlights the complexities of human mobility in the Horn of Africa. The competition, open to submissions from January 2022 onward, seeks stories that go beyond headlines and amplify the voices of migrants, refugees, and displaced persons. With over 20 million people displaced in the region, the awards seek to promote dignity-based and gender-sensitive storytelling.
The awards have ten categories, including reporting on migration for regional integration, free movement of persons, labor migration and decent work, climate and conflict-induced displacement, and women, youth, and girls. There are also dedicated categories for photojournalism, digital creators, indigenous language media, and emerging journalists. A lifetime achievement award will be presented to a senior journalist or editor whose work has significantly impacted the region's understanding of human mobility.
The judging panel, chaired by Sophia Matovu, a veteran Ugandan broadcaster, comprises experienced journalists and editors from across the region. The panel includes Patrick Oyet of South Sudan, Dr. Mercy Korir of Kenya, and Odoobo Charles Bichachi, among others. The judges will evaluate submissions based on ten published criteria, including factual accuracy, understanding of migration governance, and dignity-based storytelling.
Kampala was chosen as the host city for the awards due to its significance in the region's refugee crisis. Uganda's registered refugee and asylum-seeker population recently crossed the two-million mark, with many living in settlements or urban areas like Kampala. The city's selection is also a nod to Uganda's progressive refugee policy, which allows refugees to move freely, work, own property, and access national services.
The IGAD Media Awards 2026 are a call to journalists to tell stories that highlight the complexities of human mobility and its impact on regional integration. The awards seek to promote a nuanced understanding of migration and its effects on communities. By recognizing outstanding journalism, the awards aim to encourage more in-depth reporting on migration issues.
The official portal for submissions was open from May 25 to July 31, and by mid-October, the jury had finalized its work. The two-day event in Kampala will feature "bold conversations, powerful connections, and unforgettable stories." The awards ceremony is expected to bring together journalists, editors, and media stakeholders from across the region.
The IGAD Media Awards 2026 are a significant initiative to promote migration journalism in the region. By recognizing and rewarding outstanding journalism, the awards aim to promote a better understanding of human mobility and its impact on regional integration. The event is expected to contribute to a more nuanced public discourse on migration issues.
Key points
- The IGAD Media Awards 2026 will be held in Kampala, Uganda, on November 19 and 20.
- The awards have ten categories, including reporting on migration for regional integration and labor migration and decent work.
- The judging panel comprises experienced journalists and editors from across the region, chaired by Sophia Matovu.
