Ethiopia to Host Prestigious IGAD Media Award that Celebrates Outstanding Journalism in Climate Change

Addis Ababa, November 21, 2025 (ENA) - The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), in partnership with the Government of Ethiopia, will be hosting the 3rd Edition of the IGAD Media Awards in Addis Ababa from 29–30 November 2025.

Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Nebiyat Getachew and IGAD Mission Head to Ethiopia Abebaw Bihonegn held a joint press briefing outlining preparations for the Media Awards today.

Media personnel who have produced the best content in efforts to combat climate change will be awarded, it was learned.

The Spokesperson said the selection of Ethiopia as a venue for the IGAD event reflects the country's achievements in green economic development.

Ethiopia’s selection as the host of the 32nd Session of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP-32) is also another testament to the success of the Green Legacy Initiative, which was implemented under the initiative of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.

IGAD Mission Head to Ethiopia, Abebaw Bihonegn, on his part said the IGAD Media Awards will recognize journalists and media professionals whose work captures the realities, resilience, and solutions shaping communities across the Horn of Africa in the face of climate change.

According to him, around 400 journalists from across Africa, including 94 from Ethiopia, will be competing in eight award categories, covering television, radio, print, digital media, and a special category for Best Female Journalist.

The aim of the award is to play a positive role in promoting constructive, community-based  developmental journalism across the region.

The Head further stated that the award will contribute to strengthen public diplomacy, enhance people-to-people relations, and boost Ethiopia’s international image.

About 2,000 to 2,500 invited guests will be attending the award ceremony that is expected to  bring together regional policymakers, IGAD member states' journalists, innovators, and development partners.

The IGAD Media Awards 2025 is a prestigious regional initiative that aims to recognize and celebrate outstanding journalism that brings climate change issues in the IGAD region to the forefront of public discourse.

As the Horn of Africa grapples with the growing impacts of climate change, the 2025 edition of the Awards seeks to elevate climate-focused reporting that not only informs but also mobilizes communities, influences policy, and fosters resilience across Member States.