IGAD Media Award to Recognize Outstanding Journalism on Climate Change Across the Region

Addis Ababa, November 29, 2025 (ENA) — The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has officially opened its 2025 Media Awards in Addis Ababa today, an event designed to celebrate outstanding journalism and storytelling focused on climate change and resilience across the Horn of Africa.

The two-day ceremony, running today and tomorrow, is being organized in collaboration with the Government of Ethiopia under the compelling theme: “Storytelling for Climate Action: For a Secure, Resilient, and Stable Region.”

 

 

The event, recognizing impactful climate-related stories from journalists across the region, is attended by senior officials, media professionals, and climate advocates.

Among the high-profile participants are Planning and Development State Minister Seyoum Mekonen and Abebaw Bihonegn , IGAD’s Head of Mission.

In his opening remarks, State Minister Seyoum highly praised the critical role played by journalists, storytellers, and communicators in shaping the public’s understanding of urgent climate issues.

He also expressed appreciation for IGAD’s initiative in convening the forum and strengthening regional cooperation in climate resilience.

Seyoum pointed out that despite Africa contributing the least to global emissions, the continent continues to face severe and escalating climate impacts, which range “from prolonged droughts to erratic rainfall, floods, and rising temperatures.”

While acknowledging the challenges, State Minister Seyoum emphasized that Africa is simultaneously demonstrating significant progress and innovation in tackling the crisis.

He highlighted continental efforts spanning from large-scale reforestation and climate-smart agriculture to renewable energy investments and community-based adaptation programs.

He asserted that the continent is “demonstrating in determination creativity,” citing key examples of proactive regional action.

Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative, which has successfully planted more than 48 billion trees in recent years, was highlighted as a flagship example of Africa’s proactive and successful approach to climate action.

Seyoum further noted Ethiopia’s expanding portfolio of renewable energy sources, which includes hydropower, solar, wind, and geothermal.

This work, he noted, is not only supporting national development but also strengthening regional clean energy interconnections with neighboring countries like Kenya, Djibouti, Sudan, and Tanzania.

He hailed IGAD's crucial role in amplifying these achievements through its climate programs, early warning systems, and climate diplomacy, which collectively enhance preparedness and resilience across the Horn of Africa.

The 2025 IGAD Media Awards will be presented in several categories, including Print Journalism, Radio Journalism, Television Journalism, Digital Media, and Photojournalism.

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.

Head of Mission Abebaw underscored that hosting the awards in Addis Ababa is a testament to the leadership shown by the host nation in regional cooperation, green development, and its profound commitment to regional integration and climate diplomacy.

“This makes it the perfect place for us to celebrate and analyze your artistic excellence,” said Abebaw, referring to the journalists and climate storytellers.

 

 

He explained that this year’s theme, "Storytellers for Climate Action," is dedicated to securing a resilient, stable, and prosperous region.

Abebaw also mentioned that IGAD has evolved over its 40-year history from a primary focus on drought relief to a much broader mandate encompassing security, regional integration, and environmental resilience.

 

He concluded by noting that a jury of 21 distinguished experts stands ready to honor those whose work not only informs but also challenges and inspires, describing the awards as “an amazing opportunity to spark action and build resilience through storytelling.”