Asha Ahmed Mwilu & Rashid Idi named 2016 CNN Multichoice African Journalist

Asha Ahmed Mwilu and Rashid Idi have been awarded the top prize at this year’s CNN MultiChoice African Journalist 2016 Awards Ceremony

ASHA Ahmed Mwilu and Rashid Idi have been awarded the top prize at this year’s CNN MultiChoice African Journalist 2016 Awards Ceremony.

The pair shared the overall ‘CNN MultiChoice African Journalist of the Year’ Award for their combined work ‘Terror Crossing’ which was chosen from record number of 1,637 entries spanning 38 countries across the African continent.

Mwilu and Idi’s ‘Terror Crossing’ is an in-depth investigative documentary about security at the Kenya-Somali border in Mandera county. The story was aired by Kenya Television Network in its investigative programme “The Lead”.

Mwilu and Idi said: “We are overwhelmed by this accolade. It is a dream come true to win the CNN MultiChoice African Journalist Award for a story that we believe passionately in and one that we felt was important to tell.”

Yolisa Phahle, CEO of M-Net, and Greg Beitchman, VP, Content Sales and Partnerships, CNN International, presented Mwilu and Idi with the Award at a Gala Awards ceremony held at the Gallagher Convention Centre, in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Mwilu and Idi, winners in the News Impact Award, were among 38 finalists from 15 countries who attended the Awards ceremony as the culmination of an all-expense paid four-day programme of workshops, media forums and networking in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Greg Beitchman, VP, Content Sales and Partnerships, CNN International, said: “Quality journalism has shone through once again at this year’s CNN MultiChoice African Journalist Awards. Congratulations to all of tonight’s finalists and winners, especially to overall winners Asha Ahmed Mwilu and Rashid Idi for their powerful reporting. We look forward to welcoming them at the CNN Journalism Fellowship in Atlanta.”

Tim Jacobs, CEO, MultiChoice Africa, said: “Congratulations to all the winners! Your unique way of storytelling has captured the hearts and minds of all Africans and those beyond our borders. The Awards have not only had a profound effect on the African media landscape but have catapulted winners into senior positions and success. As MultiChoice Africa we remain committed to recognising excellence in journalism throughout Africa. We applaud all the finalists and winners for continuing to tell Africa’s stories and contributing to Africa’s growth and success.”

The competition is once again supported by a range of prestigious sponsors:  Dow, Ecobank, GE, IPP Media and the World Health Organisation.

All finalists receive both a cash prize and tablet, with the overall winner receiving a further cash prize and the opportunity to participate in the CNN Journalism Fellowship at CNN Headquarters in Atlanta.

For more information, news and updates visit: www.cnn.com/africanawards