The BBC has officially opened applications for the 2025 Komla Dumor Award, marking the 10th anniversary of this prestigious prize. Aspiring and talented journalists across Africa are encouraged to apply before the deadline on March 20, 2025.
The award, named in honor of the late Ghanaian broadcaster Komla Dumor, seeks to recognize and empower African journalists who demonstrate exceptional storytelling ability and a commitment to delivering impactful news. Dumor, a former BBC World News presenter, was known for his insightful reporting on African affairs, earning widespread respect before his untimely death at the age of 41 in 2014.
Each year, the BBC selects one outstanding journalist from Africa to participate in a three-month training program at the BBC headquarters in London. The winner receives hands-on experience, mentorship, and an opportunity to report on an original story from an African country, which is later broadcast to the BBC’s global audience.
Reflecting on her late husband’s legacy, Dumor’s widow, Kwansema Dumor, expressed pride in his impact at the BBC and gratitude for the ongoing recognition of his work through the award.
BBC News global director and deputy CEO Jonathan Munro emphasized the importance of the award, stating
The 2024 winner, Rukia Bulle from Kenya, exemplified the spirit of the award by traveling to Senegal to report on the Baye Fall, an often-misunderstood Muslim minority group. Previous recipients of the award hail from across Africa, with winners from Kenya, Ghana, Zambia, Uganda, and Nigeria.
Dumor’s career at the BBC spanned various roles, including hosting Network Africa and The World Today on BBC World Service. He later became the first host of Africa Business Report, where he traveled across the continent to spotlight Africa’s economic landscape. In 2013, New African magazine recognized him as one of the 100 most influential Africans.
The BBC remains committed to fostering Dumor’s legacy by supporting African journalists who bring depth, authenticity, and insight to global news audiences.
Interested journalists can apply via the BBC’s website before the March 20, 2025 deadline.
