By: Mpho Shelile
Maseru – Weekly Observer, in collaboration with the Climate Technology Research Institute (CTRI) and the Next Einstein Forum (NEF), hosted the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Local Content Creation Awards.
This prestigious event celebrated innovative content creators who use media to promote the SDGs, spotlighting work in radio, TV, podcasts, print, and online platforms. A total of nine content creators were recognized across three categories: Radio, TV & Podcasts, and Print & Online.
In his opening remarks, Khosi Pheko, a representative from Weekly Observer, emphasized the importance of using local narratives to confront both national and global challenges. “Through the stories we tell, we can bridge the gap between global goals and community realities. Content creators are essential in making SDGs not just aspirational, but tangible and urgent priorities,” he said.
The awards are part of an ongoing initiative by the Weekly Observer to encourage media practitioners to engage more meaningfully with sustainability, innovation, and human development. Pheko highlighted that by amplifying stories rooted in community experiences, media professionals can raise public awareness and inspire positive action.
NEF, known for its role in advancing science and technology across Africa, reiterated the power of storytelling in mobilizing action, especially in addressing challenges such as climate change, youth empowerment, and sustainable urban development.
Nine winners were announced, with each category highlighting different approaches to media advocacy each given M1,500 to M500 in cash prizes and trophies.
Radio, TV, and Podcasts Category:
This category honored creators who leverage traditional and new audio-visual platforms to educate, entertain, and raise awareness about the SDGs. Winners: Neo Shoaepane, Keiden Jonathan and Tšepiso Malunga
Print and Online Category:
This category celebrated exceptional written journalism and digital storytelling that provide in-depth insights into SDG-related topics. Winners, Katleho Mohanoe, Maseipone Mokhetho and Keketso Mokhethi. Monongoaga Pelei, Keketso Jonase Mamosa Ramoea and Thapelo Moeketsi.
The winners demonstrated creativity, research excellence, and commitment to impactful storytelling. Each awardee received trophies, and cash prizes.
During the ceremony, Mr. Letsatsi Lekhooa from CTRI stressed the importance of climate-conscious reporting, urging media professionals to align their storytelling with climate action goals. He emphasized that sustainable development depends on science and technology and encouraged journalists to highlight community-based solutions and scientific innovation.
“Media must become a strategic partner in climate action. Through accurate and engaging reporting, we can help communities build resilience and motivate policy changes,” Lekhooa said. He also noted that media has a responsibility to foster an informed public that understands the urgency of sustainable development initiatives.
The SDG Local Content Creation Awards reflect a commitment to building a strong platform for media innovation in Lesotho and the broader region. Through these partnerships, the Weekly Observer, CTRI, and NEF seek to empower local content creators to make a difference, inspiring more initiatives focused on the intersection of media, science, and sustainability.
The awards ceremony concluded with a networking session, giving participants a chance to connect with media professionals, NGOs, and development experts.
The organizers announced plans to expand the awards next year, with additional categories aimed at recognizing youth content creators and those working on grassroots media projects. Through these efforts, the Weekly Observer, CTRI, and NEF hope to further encourage the creation of local content that drives meaningful change and aligns with Lesotho’s national priorities under the SDGs.
“Media is a tool for transformation. As we move forward, we need more stories that reflect our communities’ challenges and solutions, aligning them with the global goals,” said Letsatsi in closing remarks.
Mr. Keketso Jonase acknowledged the organisers of these awards stating that, “this goes to show that his hard work is noticed.”
This year’s SDG Local Content Creation Awards serve as a testament to the power of storytelling, proving that the media can be both a watchdog and a catalyst for progress.