The BBC News Komla Dumor Award, now in its ninth year, is searching for a standout talent from Africa’s journalism scene.
Journalists from across the continent are encouraged to apply for this opportunity, designed to spotlight and support emerging voices in African journalism.
The chosen recipient will have the chance to spend three months at the BBC headquarters in London, where they will enhance their skills and gain valuable experience.
Applications for the award close on March 15, 2023, at 23:59 GMT.
Established in memory of Komla Dumor, a remarkable Ghanaian broadcaster and former BBC World News presenter who passed away at the age of 41, the award aims to celebrate his legacy and nurture future journalistic talent.
Kwansema Dumor, widow of the late Komla Dumor, expressed her pride in her husband’s BBC legacy and gratitude for the network’s remembrance through the prestigious prize.
The BBC calls upon journalists across Africa to vie for the award, aimed at spotlighting and honoring exceptional talent residing and working on the continent.
The successful candidate will undergo training and embark on a reporting journey within an African nation to cover a self-researched story, broadcasted to global BBC audiences.
Renowned for his dedication to dynamic journalism and comprehensive reporting of African narratives, Dumor left an indelible mark on Africa and the world.
The BBC pledges to uphold his legacy by empowering African journalists to convey original and nuanced stories to international viewers.
Paa Kwesi Asare, a Ghanaian news anchor, clinched last year’s award, hailing from the same country as the esteemed Komla Dumor.
During his tenure, Asare ventured to Kenya, documenting efforts to transition the country’s motorbike taxis, known as “boda bodas,” to electric power.
Liliane Landor, senior controller of BBC News International Services, commends the remarkable talent uncovered through the Komla Dumor Award, underscoring the network’s commitment to celebrating Africa’s journalistic excellence in Dumor’s honor.
Dumor, former presenter of BBC World News’ Focus on Africa, played a pivotal role in shaping the network’s inaugural daily English TV news program tailored for African audiences. He also anchored BBC World News’ European morning segment.
Joining the BBC in 2007 following a decade-long broadcasting career in Ghana, where he earned the prestigious Ghana Journalist of the Year award, Dumor hosted Network Africa on BBC World Service and later joined The World Today program.
In 2009, Dumor became the inaugural host of Africa Business Report on BBC World News, traversing Africa to engage with leading entrepreneurs and report on burgeoning business trends across the continent.
In recognition of his impact, Dumor was featured in New African magazine’s esteemed list of the 100 most influential Africans in 2013.