Online Reporter
Post Reporter
THE Manica Post correspondent, Lloyd Makonya, clinched the highly coveted African Regional Intellectual Property Organisation (ARIPO) IP Journalist of the Year Award at a colourful ceremony held at Labadi Beach Hotel on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean in Accra, Ghana on Wednesday.
The award, now in its second edition, honours a journalist who has made the most significant impact in raising awareness and demystifying intellectual property (IP) issues across ARIPO’s 22 member states.
Makonya emerged the clear winner in a tightly contested competition that drew 29 entries from across the continent, a feat ARIPO head of communications, Ms Susan Mwiti said underscores the growing importance of IP reporting in Africa.
“The panel was impressed by Lloyd’s powerful storytelling, clarity of expression and his ability to simplify complex IP concepts for the general public. His work stood out for its impact, accuracy and relevance at a time when knowledge economies are shaping Africa’s development,” said Ms Mwiti.
The awards were presented on the sidelines of ARIPO’s 49th Administrative Council meeting, attended by delegates from across the world, including experts from the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), Europe and various African regions.
In his keynote remarks, ARIPO Director General Mr Bemanya Twebaze applauded journalists for their pivotal role in enhancing public understanding of intellectual property.
“IP is often seen as a technical and complex field, yet it is central to innovation and Africa’s economic transformation. Journalists like Lloyd help bridge that gap. ARIPO remains committed to supporting and capacitating journalists who are driving this important agenda,” he said.
Delivering his acceptance speech in Accra, Makonya paid tribute to his Editor, colleagues and mentors for their support.
“I am deeply honoured by this recognition. I want to sincerely appreciate my Editor, Mr Cletus Mushanawani, for his steadfast guidance and support in my work,” he said.
“This award is a reminder of the responsibility we carry as journalists to simplify and amplify issues around intellectual property, especially at a time when many African nations are transitioning towards knowledge-based economies. IP sits at the heart of Africa’s future competitiveness.”
He also thanked ARIPO for recognising the role of the media in driving innovation awareness and urged fellow journalists to continue pursuing excellence in IP reporting.
Makonya becomes the first Zimbabwean journalist to win the award, and joins the ever growing lists of media personnel from The Manica Post who have won various awards in 2025.
The Manica Post’s reputation as a nurturing ground for impactful storytelling and thought leadership in emerging knowledge sectors has gone beyond the country’s borders.
