No Zambian reporter on CNN/MultiChoice African Journalist 2016 awards list

FINALISTS for the prestigious CNN MultiChoice African Journalist 2016 Competition have been announced today with no Zambian Journalist making it to the list.

The finalists were announced by Ferial Haffajee, Chair of the independent judging panel.

Haffajee said this year; the competition received 1637 entries – a record number – from 38 countries across the continent, including French and Portuguese-speaking Africa.

Nigeria and South African journalists have dominated the list.

Tony Maddox, Executive Vice-President and Managing Director of CNN International said: “This year has seen a record number of entries for the CNN MultiChoice African Journalist Awards, from a diverse array of countries across the continent.

He said the passion which African journalists display for telling compelling and top class stories knows no bounds.

Greg Beitchman, Vice President, Content Sales and Partnerships, CNN International: “The African Journalist Awards continues to maintain its place as the most prestigious Pan African journalist competition.

He said with their MultiChoice partners, they look forward to yet another thrilling Awards ceremony celebrating the very best journalism Africa has to offer.

Mark Rayner, CEO MultiChoice South Africa said: “We’re excited to host the CNN MultiChoice African Journalist of the Year Awards in South Africa this year and looking forward to see all the good work done by our journalists celebrated and recognised through these awards.

Tim Jacobs, CEO MultiChoice Africa, said: “It is evident from this year’s entries that Africa has a vibrant media landscape which continues to develop in leaps and bounds.

The finalists are to be applauded for their courage in covering some of the stories, many of which were in difficult circumstances.
“We are committed to increasing excellence in journalism and this initiative is close to our hearts, as it has helped unearth some of Africa’s greatest story tellers””, Jacobs said.