By Haddy Touray
Farm Radio International, a Canada-based non-profit organization working to strengthen food security and rural development through radio broadcasting in Africa, has honoured 10 journalists from across the continent for excellence in agricultural journalism and community-focused programming.
Among the recipients is Gambian broadcaster Ousman A. Marong, General Manager of Vibes FM Radio Station, recognized for his contribution to farmer-centred programming and impactful storytelling.
Farm Radio International, established in 1979, works in partnership with more than 1,450 media organizations across 38 sub-Saharan African countries, including public, private, community, religious, and development-oriented radio stations. The organization supports the dissemination of locally relevant agricultural information, with emphasis on sustainable farming practices, climate change adaptation, and rural livelihoods.
The recognition is linked to the George Atkins Communication Award, an annual prize named after the founder of Farm Radio International. The award honours radio broadcasters in developing countries who demonstrate outstanding service to rural communities and smallholder farmers. It includes a cash prize, a Purpose Prize valued at 500 Canadian dollars, and a certificate of recognition.
Speaking after his selection, Marong described his work as “journalism of necessity,” saying his reporting is rooted in African realities and aims to reflect truth with depth and dignity. He added that the recognition represents both a personal milestone and a responsibility to continue producing journalism that informs and transforms communities.
Farm Radio International noted that Marong’s selection was particularly well received by its Just Communication Network, according to Busi Ngcebetsha, Manager of the network, who communicated the results to this year’s recipients.
Other awardees include journalists from Ethiopia, Mali, Ghana, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania, and Benin.
List of awardees:
Ahmed Geleto (Ethiopia); Djibril Diallo (Mali); Tahirou Coulibaly (Mali); Ousman A. Marong (The Gambia); Fidelis Awonodomo Da-uri (Ghana); Jean Luc Simbilyabo (DR Congo); Isidory Matandula (Tanzania); Dieudonné Babatoundé Abimbola (Benin); Peter Mrema (Tanzania); and Oliyad Bedane (Ethiopia).
To qualify for the award, applicants must work with a radio station partnered with Farm Radio International for at least one year and have a minimum of three years of broadcasting experience, including volunteer work. Previous winners are ineligible for reapplication for five years.
Applicants are required to submit a completed form, a photograph in action as a broadcaster, and an audio recording demonstrating their work.