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The National AIDS Council (Nac) will hold its annual Media Awards Ceremony in Bulawayo on Thursday 28 June 2018, to motivate journalists who cover HIV and Aids issues nationwide, as well as to encourage effective coverage of issues.
These will be the second awards followingA� the inaugural awards which were held last year.
Given the critical role the media plays in disseminating new information, it is imperative that journalists should be motivated to continue to report professionally, objectively and ethically on HIV and Aids issues.
Since the first case of HIV was reported in Zimbabwe in 1985,the media has contributed significantly towards creatingA� awareness on changing HIV and Aids trends, influencing change of risky behaviour, myths, misconceptions and perceptions among the populace which has enhanced the national response to the pandemic.
On the other hand Nac has been holding training workshops for journalists and editors to update them onA� new developments in the response to HIV and to enhance their appreciation and effective coverage of HIV and Aids issues.
The awards are based on articles published between January and December 2017. Seasoned media practitioners adjudicated.
Key considerations during the adjudication process were quantity, quality, correctness of facts, and relevance to policies and issues as well sensitivity to language.
Winners will walk away with prestigious prizes, among them sponsorships to international and regional conferences on HIV and Aids.
Officials from the Ministry of Health and Child Care, representatives from various implementing partners and stakeholders, media personnel as well as Nac board, management and staff are expected to attend the ceremony.
Minister of Health and Child Care, Honourable Dr David Parirenyatwa will officiate as guest of honour.
Last year, the first prize was scooped by Sharon Kavhu of The Southern Times. She walked away with a full sponsorship to the Conference on HIV Science held in France, which she attended for 5 days, a certificate and a trophy.
Tinomuda Chakanyuka of The Sunday News was the second prize winner and he got a full sponsorship to Cote da��Ivoire for the International Conference on Aids and STIs in Africa (ICASA) for five days, a trophy and a certificate.
On third place was Mirirai Nsingo of the H-Metro who received a trophy, certificate and $850. Nac also awarded Zimpapers and Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation for the widest coverage in the print and electronic media respectively while ZiFM Stereo was recognised for timeous reporting. .
Online Reporter