By: Isatou Sarr
The Gambia Press Union (GPU), through its National Journalism Awards Committee, has formally announced the commencement of preparations for the 10th edition of the National Journalism Awards—an event that has become the country’s premier platform for recognizing excellence in the media sector.
The announcement was made during a press conference held on Monday at the Bakadaji Hotel, marking the beginning of a commemorative edition that will celebrate a decade of seeing professional journalism in The Gambia.
Speaking at the briefing, Ms. Therese Fatou Gomez, Vice Chairperson of the National Journalism Awards Committee, disclosed that this year’s eligibility period for submissions will include journalistic works published or broadcast between January 2024 and December 2024, as well as from January to July 2025. The official deadline for submissions is expected to be announced in due course.
“This year marks a significant milestone for the GPU and the media community in general. Ten years of recognising outstanding journalism is not only a cause for celebration, but also a time for reflection on the role of the media in safeguarding democracy and promoting accountability,” Ms. Gomez stated.
The Committee has confirmed that 15 award categories will be retained for the 2025 edition, including but not limited to: Investigative Journalism, Human Rights Reporting, Environment and Climate Change, Women and Girls Reporting, Health, Business and Finance, Sports, Politics, Legal Affairs, Agriculture, Culture and Entertainment, Feature Writing, Photojournalism, Television News Packages, and Radio News Packages.
Ms. Gomez emphasized that the awards are intended not only to appreciate individual excellence but to serve as an incentive for the wider media community to maintain high standards in journalism. “These awards are rooted in the belief that a free, responsible, and vibrant press is essential to national development. They aim to motivate journalists to persist in their duty of informing, educating, and holding power to account,” she said.
Traditionally held on May 3rd to coincide with World Press Freedom Day, the upcoming edition may feature enhanced visibility initiatives, as the GPU seeks to further elevate the event’s national relevance and public engagement.
The Awards Committee is encouraging all eligible journalists to begin compiling and submitting their most impactful work. The 10th National Journalism Awards are set to be a landmark occasion in the history of Gambian media, reaffirming the press’s vital role in upholding democratic values and public accountability.