Chronicle Editor
Harare Bureau
TWO journalists from the country’s largest integrated media house, Zimpapers, yesterday walked away with top prizes at the Sadc Media Awards held during the 44th Sadc Heads of State and Government Summit in Mt Hampden.
The Sunday Mail’s Debra Matabvu scooped the first prize in the print category for her story titled “New-look road boon for Sadc integration”.
The piece delved into the positive impact of the rehabilitated Harare-Masvingo-Beitbridge Road and the modernised Beitbridge Border Post on regional economic integration.
In the photography category, Zimpapers senior photographer, Kudakwashe Hunda also won first prize.
His entry showcased captivating images of the newly revamped Beitbridge Border Post, underscoring its significance in facilitating trade involving Zimbabwe, South Africa and the broader African continent.
Matabvu expressed gratitude to her colleagues and editors at The Sunday Mail for their unwavering support.
“Winning this award is a testament to the power of journalism in driving regional development,” she said.
“I am honoured to be recognised for highlighting the positive impact of infrastructure on Sadc integration.
“This award is a recognition of the hard work and dedication of the entire Sunday Mail team.
“It was a privilege to contribute to stories that promote regional growth and co-operation.
“The rehabilitation of the Harare-Beitbridge Road and the modernisation of the Beitbridge Border Post are game-changers for the region and I am thrilled to have been able to shed light on their significance.”
Hunda said: “I want to thank the Sadc chairperson, President Mnangagwa, for his Government’s development thrust.
“There is massive development of infrastructure such as the modernisation of the Beitbridge Border Post, which is an important link to regional integration.
“This has afforded us, as journalists, ample material to tell our stories in a unique and pro-development way for the world to see.
“I also want to thank my employer, Zimpapers, especially the group editorial executive, Mr William Chikoto and all the editors.
“Lastly, I want to thank my family for their support.”
The Sadc Media Awards were established in 1996 to honour best media work that highlights Sadc initiatives, which support the process of regional co-operation and integration.
They are open to all journalists from Sadc member states.
The competition comprises four categories: photographic, print, television and radio journalism.
Online Reporter