BY ZINHLE DLAMINI (INTERN)
MBABANE– Journalists and media practitioners across the region have been invited to submit entries for the COMESA Media Awards 2026 following an extension of the submission deadline to March 28 2026.
The call for entries was announced by the Ministry of Commerce Industry and Trade, encouraging journalists to showcase impactful stories that highlight regional integration, trade and development within the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) region.
The awards are held annually to recognise and reward journalists who produce outstanding stories that raise awareness about regional integration programmes and economic cooperation among member states.
According to the ministry, journalists are encouraged to submit entries that demonstrate how trade, investment, infrastructure development and regional cooperation are transforming economies across Eastern and Southern Africa.
The initiative also aims to promote high-quality journalism that strengthens public understanding of regional policies, development initiatives and economic collaboration among COMESA member states.
The competition is open to journalists from COMESA countries whose work was published or broadcast by recognised media institutions. Eligible entries include work produced in print, radio, television and online media platforms.
Entries should focus on topics related to regional integration such as trade, transport, agriculture, information and communication technology, energy, gender and investment. These sectors are considered key drivers of economic cooperation and development across the region.
Organisers noted that the awards provide an important platform for recognising the role journalists play in informing the public about regional economic issues while encouraging constructive dialogue around development.
Winning stories are expected to demonstrate strong storytelling, originality and a clear understanding of regional integration matters.
Media professionals interested in participating can submit their entries through the official COMESA online entry portal.
Officials have encouraged journalists not to miss the opportunity to showcase their work and gain regional recognition while contributing to greater awareness of the benefits of economic cooperation and integration.
The COMESA Media Awards continue to serve as an important platform celebrating excellence in journalism while promoting stories that highlight both the opportunities and challenges facing the region.
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(Courtesy Pic)
