Call for Submissions: KAS Media Africa Local Journalism Award 2026

Deadline: 05-Jan-2026

The KAS Media Africa Local Journalism Award celebrates outstanding local reporting that informs communities and connects local perspectives to national and global events. Journalists working in print, online, audio, video, or social media are invited to submit work published in 2025, with winners receiving financial support and an invitation to the Local Journalism Conference in Malawi. This award emphasizes the impact of high-quality local journalism and supports initiatives that strengthen community storytelling.

Overview

The Local Journalism Award, organized by KAS Media Africa, recognises the crucial role of local journalism in shaping informed societies. It highlights storytelling that reflects community realities while linking local narratives to broader national and global contexts.

Program Objectives

• Celebrate high-quality local journalism

• Encourage stories that inform, engage, and empower communities

• Support journalists in enhancing their reporting skills and projects

• Foster collaboration and networking through the Local Journalism Conference

Eligible Work

• Formats accepted: Print, online, audio, video, and innovative social media journalism

• Publication timeframe: Work published in 2025

• Languages: English or French

• Projects should showcase community relevance, audience engagement, and journalistic excellence

Who Is Eligible?

• Professional journalists reporting on local issues in Sub-Saharan Africa

• Individuals whose work demonstrates impact, quality, and relevance to local communities

• Submissions can include collaborative projects as long as the primary journalist is clearly identified

How to Apply / How It Works

1. Prepare Submission: Include the published work, a short background description, the platform it appeared on, and audience engagement details

2. Submit Entry: Online submissions must be completed before 5 January 2026

3. Evaluation: Entries are reviewed for journalistic quality, community relevance, and impact

4. Selection: Up to three winners are selected to participate in the Local Journalism Conference

5. Award Benefits: Winners receive financial support to advance their reporting projects and networking opportunities at the conference

Tips for Applicants

• Highlight the community relevance of your story

• Demonstrate audience engagement and impact

• Ensure your work adheres to high journalistic standards

• Provide clear context and background for judges to understand the story’s significance

FAQ

1. What types of journalism are eligible?

Print, online, audio, video, and innovative social media projects are accepted.

2. Which publications qualify?

Only work published in 2025 and in English or French is eligible.

3. Who can submit an entry?

Professional journalists reporting on local issues in Sub-Saharan Africa.

4. What should the submission include?

• The published work

• A brief background description

• Platform details

• Audience engagement and impact metrics

5. How many winners are selected?

Up to three winners are chosen.

6. What do winners receive?

• Invitation to the Local Journalism Conference in Malawi, February 2026

• Financial support to advance their reporting projects

7. What is the application deadline?

Entries must be submitted by 5 January 2026.

Conclusion

The KAS Media Africa Local Journalism Award recognizes the power of local storytelling in building informed communities and fostering public dialogue. By participating, journalists gain financial support, visibility, and professional development opportunities, helping strengthen local reporting and its impact on society.

For more information, visit Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung.