Nominees for the IGAD Media Awards 2025 are calling for more powerful, community-centered climate storytelling to drive awareness, influence policy, and strengthen regional cooperation across the Horn of Africa.

Journalists from South Sudan, Kenya, and Somalia emphasized the critical role of the media in amplifying climate impacts and inspiring action at local and national levels.

From South Sudan, King media producer Gabriel Gatluak underscored how climate change has severely affected communities, particularly through recurrent flooding. He said journalists have a responsibility to alert the public and help mobilize support:

“In South Sudan we are under attack from climate change. Media must create awareness—when we highlight flood outbreaks in certain locations, people know where to get help and organizations can respond,” he said.

Gatluak added that even a single image shared online can trigger attention and assistance: “Imagine if the media consistently focused on climate issues—that would create major change.”

He praised the IGAD Media Awards for offering journalists visibility, networking, and a chance to collaborate across borders.

“This platform is a blessing. I’ve met colleagues from Kenya and Uganda, built connections, and now we can work together. It should expand beyond IGAD to unite journalists across Africa.”

Kenyan nominee Annastasia Kiragu, a documentary journalist from UNC Media, highlighted the importance of authenticity and depth in climate reporting.

“Journalists need to tell the raw story—show the reality as it is, without over-editing,” she said.

Kiragu stressed that climate storytelling must extend beyond short news clips to in-depth documentaries that capture the lived experiences of communities.

“If floods hit lake basin areas, go there and tell their stories. If people are affected by drought, show how they are coping. Don’t just rely on online information.”

She applauded IGAD for empowering journalists: “Being recognized motivates us to do more. This platform enhances journalists and strengthens our work.”

From Somalia, nominee Mohmed Absia expressed pride in representing one of the countries most affected by climate change.

“Climate change is a global challenge, but Africa is among the most affected,” he said.

Absia noted that Somalia’s government is increasing its efforts—from participation in international climate forums to strengthening national climate institutions.

He emphasized that journalists play a vital role in documenting these efforts and informing communities about adaptation and resilience.

“Journalists are trying their best to tell climate stories. The IGAD Media Awards encourage all of us to contribute more.”

The IGAD Media Awards 2025 continues to serve as a critical platform for elevating climate journalism, fostering collaboration among media professionals, and strengthening regional climate resilience through impactful storytelling.