By: Mpho Shelile
Maseru – The Revenue Services Lesotho (RSL), in collaboration with the Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) Lesotho, recently held the prestigious Journalism Excellence Awards with the aim of recognising and celebrating the exceptional work of journalists in the Kingdom of Lesotho.
These awards are part of an ongoing effort to inspire higher standards of journalism in Lesotho, encourage ethical reporting, and highlight the importance of responsible, truth-driven media coverage. The event celebrated not only individual achievements but also underscored the role of the media in the ongoing development of the country.
In her keynote address, General Commissioner of RSL, Mrs. Mathabo Mokoko, emphasized that the Journalism Excellence Awards reflect a deep commitment to the growth and development of the media industry in Lesotho. She noted that the media plays a crucial role in shaping the focus and progress of society.
“Media has the power to create an informed, responsible, and empowered society,” said Mrs. Mokoko. “Through responsible journalism, we have the potential to shape the direction of our nation and contribute to the realization of a prosperous Lesotho.” She urged journalists to continue their commitment to truth and ethical reporting, noting that they have the power to influence the trajectory of the country’s growth.
“Let today’s recognition challenge you to raise the bar even higher. Your work is critical in feeding society the right information that will drive Lesotho to the next level,” she added.
Kananelo Boloetse, the Chairperson of MISA Lesotho, also spoke at the event, highlighting the importance of acknowledging the efforts of all journalists, even those who did not win an award.
“For those who did not win tonight, this is not a reflection of your abilities. The very fact that you stepped forward to submit your work is something to celebrate. You are all contributing to the growth and betterment of Lesotho’s media landscape,” Boloetse remarked.
The RSL/MISA Journalism Excellence Awards sought to honour outstanding contributions across various sectors of journalism, including print, broadcast, and investigative reporting. The award categories were designed to recognise journalists who uphold the values of accuracy, fairness, and integrity in their work, setting a standard of excellence in the media profession. The winners were selected based on their contributions to journalism that serve the public interest and raise awareness about critical issues in Lesotho.
Here are the key award categories and their winners:
- Business & Economy Reporting: Recognising journalists who demonstrated expertise and commitment to reporting on Lesotho’s economic landscape, highlighting key issues such as economic growth, business development, and fiscal management.
- Winners: Mapule Motsopa (Print) and Neo Kolane (Broadcast)
- Best Investigative Journalist: Honoring the courage and thoroughness of journalists who investigate critical issues in society and bring hidden truths to light.
- Winners: Mohalenyane Phakela (Print) and Limpho Sello (Print)
- Early Childhood Development Reporting: Celebrating journalists who focused on the crucial role of early childhood education in shaping future generations. Their reports brought attention to the challenges faced by young children and their educational systems in Lesotho.
- Winners: Mapule Motsopa (Print) and Mosa Maoeng (Broadcast)
Mr. Mzimkhulu Sithetho reiterated the importance of maintaining high standards of journalism, emphasising that journalists must continue to engage with integrity and responsibility. He highlighted the need for journalists to stay true to the ethical principles of reporting, ensuring they serve the public with accurate and balanced information.
MISA Lesotho Director, Lekhetho Ntsukunyane, also spoke about the organisation’s role in providing continuous training and support for journalists.
He stressed the importance of equipping journalists with the skills necessary to navigate the challenges posed by the modern media landscape, including the rise of digital platforms and the increasing demand for fast, accurate reporting.
The winners, Mapule Motsopa, Neo Kolane, Mohalenyane Phakela, Limpho Sello, and Mosa Maoeng, have set a high benchmark for excellence in journalism, serving as an inspiration for future generations of journalists.
These awards not only celebrate individual achievements but also highlight the central role the media plays in developing an informed, educated, and empowered society. Through continued recognition of exceptional work, Lesotho’s media industry is strengthened, ensuring it remains a powerful force for good in shaping the nation’s future.
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