HARARE – Journalists and media houses across the SADC region have been urged to explore the full potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital technologies in promoting regional integration, especially as countries grapple with rapid technological change and misinformation.
The call was made on 24 June 2025 by Zimbabwe’s Permanent Secretary for Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Mr. Nick Mangwana, during the opening session of the 30th Regional Adjudication Committee (RAC) meeting for the SADC Media Awards.
Mr. Mangwana told delegates gathered in Harare that the media has a crucial role to play in shaping a well-informed citizenry that understands the value of integration. He said regional adjudication forums like RAC serve as a platform for recognising excellence in journalism and reinforcing SADC’s commitment to development through storytelling.
He also called for stronger collaboration within the media sector to build an ecosystem that is resilient against fake news and disinformation.
Speaking during the same event, SADC Secretariat’s Head of Communication and Public Relations, Ms. Barbara Lopi, described the media as central to amplifying SADC’s milestones, challenges and collective goals. She acknowledged the efforts of journalists who submitted entries for this year’s competition and encouraged national coordinators to step up awareness around the Media Awards in their respective countries.
Representing Madagascar, the incoming Chair of SADC and Director of Communication in the country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ms. Olivia Rakotonirina, thanked adjudicators for their fairness and professionalism in selecting this year’s winners. She said Madagascar remains committed to supporting media practitioners who boldly report on the region’s development.
She also extended an invitation to all Member States to attend the 31st RAC meeting set to take place in Madagascar in June 2026.
This year’s committee, chaired by Ms. Oleen Ndori, reviewed 29 entries across Photo, Print, Radio and Television categories that had advanced from national adjudication rounds.
Winners of the 2025 SADC Media Awards will be announced during the 45th SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government in Antananarivo, Madagascar, on 17 August 2025. First-place winners will receive US$2,500, while runners-up will be awarded US$1,000.
The 2026 SADC Media Awards call for entries will open in October 2025. Journalists are encouraged to submit through their country’s SADC National Media Coordinators.
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